Hwasun "Neungju Ssikkimgut" Designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage of South Jeolla Province

by Shin Dongho

Published 27 Oct.2025 13:47(KST)

"Carrying On the Region's Artistic Traditions"

Hwasun County in South Jeolla Province announced on October 27 that the "Hwasun Neungju Ssikkimgut," which carries on the region's artistic traditions, has been newly designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of South Jeolla Province.

According to the county, "Hwasun Neungju Ssikkimgut" has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of South Jeolla Province, with Joungseok Cho (age 63) designated as the holder and the Neungju Ssikkimgut Preservation Association recognized as the holding organization.

Neungju Ssikkimgut Intangible Cultural Heritage Performance. Provided by Hwasun County

This designation is expected to serve as an opportunity to shed new light on local intangible heritage that has been fading due to rapid industrialization and generational divides, and to provide a foundation for passing it down to future generations.

"Hwasun Neungju Ssikkimgut" is the only traditional Ssikkimgut that has been continuously practiced in the inland region of South Jeolla Province, maintaining a solid lineage centered on hereditary shamans. It is regarded as a representative example in which the typical structure of authentic shamanic rituals, the artistry of shamanic music, and the faith of the local community are harmoniously blended.

Joungseok Cho, who has been designated as the holder, inherited the tradition of the Cho family's shamanic lineage and received instruction in traditional rituals from his late mother, shaman Park Jeongnyeo. He has preserved the artistic and spiritual value of Ssikkimgut together with the local community.

County Governor Koo Bokgyu stated, "This designation is an institutional recognition of the efforts made by the holder and the local community, who have quietly maintained the tradition over many years," adding, "We plan to continue expanding research, studies, and support projects to systematically preserve and pass down intangible heritage that well represents the region's identity."