National Folklore Cultural Heritage (South Korea)
Definition: National Folklore Cultural Heritage (국가민속문화재, Gukga Minseok Munhwajae) is a category of designated cultural properties in South Korea. It encompasses intangible and tangible elements of traditional Korean culture, life, and customs. Unlike National Intangible Cultural Heritage, which focuses primarily on skills, arts, and performances, National Folklore Cultural Heritage includes a broader range of aspects of daily life, seasonal customs, occupational practices, foodways, clothing, dwellings, beliefs, and social structures.
Purpose: The designation of items as National Folklore Cultural Heritage serves to preserve and promote understanding of the rich and diverse folk traditions of Korea. By identifying and protecting these elements of cultural heritage, the Korean government aims to maintain continuity between past and present generations, ensuring that these traditions are passed down and remain a living part of Korean society.
Criteria for Designation: Items considered for designation as National Folklore Cultural Heritage typically meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Represent significant aspects of traditional Korean lifestyle, customs, or beliefs.
- Demonstrate the historical development or evolution of Korean culture.
- Possess unique characteristics or regional variations within Korean folk traditions.
- Contribute to the understanding of the social, economic, or environmental context of traditional Korean life.
- Face a significant risk of disappearing or being lost due to modernization or other factors.
Scope: National Folklore Cultural Heritage can encompass a wide variety of tangible and intangible elements. Tangible examples may include traditional houses, tools, clothing, and food items. Intangible examples may include traditional rituals, folk games, agricultural practices, and local dialects. Entire villages or communities preserving unique traditions can also be designated.
Management and Protection: The Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) of South Korea is responsible for the designation, management, and protection of National Folklore Cultural Heritage. The CHA provides financial and technical support for the preservation of designated items, including research, restoration, and educational programs. Owners and custodians of designated heritage items are often responsible for their daily upkeep and maintenance, adhering to guidelines and regulations established by the CHA.
Relationship to Other Cultural Heritage Categories: National Folklore Cultural Heritage is one of several categories of designated cultural properties in South Korea. It is distinct from National Treasures (Gukbo), which represent the most valuable tangible cultural assets, and National Intangible Cultural Heritage (Gukga Muhyeong Munhwajae), which focuses on intangible artistic and craft skills. While distinctions exist, overlap is possible; an item could potentially be considered under multiple categories if it meets the criteria for each.
Significance: The designation of items as National Folklore Cultural Heritage plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Korean cultural identity. It fosters a sense of national pride and encourages the appreciation of traditional practices and knowledge. Furthermore, it contributes to the development of cultural tourism and provides opportunities for local communities to benefit from their cultural heritage.