Local Tradition

[Anchor Lead]

One village on Jejudo Island holds an annual ritual in the first month of the lunar calendar to pray for a peaceful year. The tradition, which stems from the harsh climate of the island, has recently emerged as a tourist attraction.

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Haeshinsa Shrine is Jejudo Island's Designated Monument No. 22. Locals bring offerings they've prepared with extra care, while men donning formal attire conduct a worship ritual to the ocean deity. An ancient rite that was held to pray for the safe voyages of local officials is also reenacted in the sea off Hwabuk Port, which used to be a gateway to Jejudo Island during the Joseon period.

[Soundbite] Yang Sun-ho(Jejudo Haesinje Ritual Committee) : "The ritual was launched at the king's order to pray for safe voyages in stormy weather, when the waves were high."

The locals also pray for a safe and peaceful year.

[Soundbite] Kim Jin-pyeong(Jeju Resident) : "We asked the Sea God to help us solve problems and keep our fishermen safe at sea."

Some 120 villages on Jejudo Island hold rituals in the first month of the lunar calendar to worship their deities. Rituals held in Napeup-ri and Songdang-ri have been designated as intangible cultural assets of the island. Recently, they helped attract local and foreign tourists.

[Soundbite] Kim Myung-shil(Jeju Resident) : "It's a wonderful learning opportunity for children. Coming here was a great idea."

Shamanic rituals conducted by Jejudo residents to pray for peace and safety will be held on the island through March 1.