Korean Shamanism and Cultural Nationalism

by Hyun-key Kim Hogarth

Shamanism has more or less disappeared, even in Siberia where the word 'Shaman' originated. However, in Korea, a newly-industrialized nation-state, shamanism has not merely survived, but is enjoying a revival as a uniquely Korean cultural heritage to be cherished. In this book, the author attempts to unravel its mystery through analyzing historical documents and her own field data. She concludes that the survival of Korean shamanism is linked to the global phenomenon of the revival of ethnicity and cultural nationalism. The author, a Korean-born British social anthropologist, provides the reader with not only a wealth of knowledge on Korean shamanism, but also the rationale for its great significance to the Korean people.

422 pages, Hardcover

Published May 25, 1999

Reviews

[Pita Gabby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hogarth's book is situated within a broader discourse on how indigenous spiritual practices, such as shamanism, are often reinterpreted in the context of national identity formation. The author examines how shamanism has been both a target of colonial suppression and a source of cultural revival, particularly in the face of modernity and globalization. Hogarth argues that shamanism has been co-opted by nationalistic movements as a means to assert cultural identity against external influences. This is particularly relevant in the context of Korea's historical struggles against colonial rule and its ongoing quest for cultural sovereignty.

Hogarth highlights how shamanistic practices serve as forms of resistance against cultural homogenization. The rituals, beliefs, and symbols associated with Korean shamanism provide a framework for community cohesion and identity affirmation. The author illustrates this through various case studies that showcase contemporary shamanistic practices and their significance in modern Korean society. The book also discusses the revival of interest in shamanism in post-colonial Korea. Hogarth details how these practices have transformed over time, adapting to new social contexts while retaining core elements that resonate with traditional beliefs. This transformation reflects broader societal changes and the dynamic nature of cultural practices.

Hogarth employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating ethnographic fieldwork with historical analysis. This methodology allows for a nuanced understanding of how shamanism operates within contemporary Korean society. The use of interviews with practitioners, alongside an examination of historical texts, enriches the narrative and provides diverse perspectives on the subject matter.

Korean Shamanism and Cultural Nationalism makes significant contributions to both Korean studies and the study of indigenous religions. By situating shamanism within the framework of cultural nationalism, Hogarth opens up new avenues for understanding how traditional practices can inform contemporary identity politics. The book serves as an essential resource for scholars interested in anthropology, religious studies, and East Asian cultural history. Through its insightful analysis and rich ethnographic detail, the book not only illuminates the complexities of shamanistic practices but also underscores their relevance in understanding modern Korean identity. This scholarly contribution is invaluable for anyone seeking to grasp the intricate relationships between culture, religion, and nationalism in Korea.

[Philipp · Rating 3 out of 5]

The part about musok, or korean shamanism, it‘s rituals and history was pretty good, at least for someone who had no prior knowledge of the subject. But the last chapter especially was pretty lackluster and full of anti-communist propaganda and at times the nationalism of the author came through.
Also, two big gripes I had were: 1. Saying Hegels Dialectic was about Thesis, Antitheses and Syntheses. No. It‘s not. Hegel didn‘t uses those categories, that was Fichte and as an author of a scientific book you should know
2. The vulgar reading of Marx‘ position on religion, which means starting at „religion is the opium of the people“ and not reading the first half of the quote „Religion is the sigh of the oppressed creature, the heart of a heartless world, and the soul of soulless conditions.“ And then trying to explain why North Korea would suppress mudang.

Speaking of North Korea. There‘s no serious investigation of musok in North Korea, which seems to me a huge blindspot of the book.