Korean Traditional Game : Jangseung Seugi Nori

🍂 Korean Traditional Game Series 36

Jangseung Seugi Nori

(장승세우기놀이 · Korean Totem Pole-Raising Game)

🕰️ 1. Introduction

Jangseung Seugi Nori (장승세우기놀이), meaning “totem pole-raising play,” is a traditional Korean communal event where villagers carve, decorate, and erect jangseung — wooden guardian poles — at the entrance of the village.
This custom blended ritual, craftsmanship, and play, serving both spiritual and social purposes.

Jangseung were believed to ward off evil spirits, protect crops, and symbolize peace and unity among villagers.
The process of raising them was filled with laughter, song, and teamwork, turning sacred ritual into a joyful festival.

🪄 2. How to Play and Celebrate

• Villagers select two large wooden logs, usually representing a male and a female guardian (Dangsan Jangseung).
• The logs are carved with expressive faces, often smiling or fierce, and inscribed with titles such as “Village Protector” (Cheonhadaejanggun) or “Female Guardian” (Jihayeojanggun).
• Once carving is complete, everyone gathers for the Jangseung Seugi Nori — the totem-raising festival.
• With ropes and poles, villagers lift the jangseung upright at the village gate, shouting in rhythm and cheering as it rises.
• Traditional nongak (farmer’s music) plays in the background, and people share food, dance, and celebrate after the poles are set.

👀 3. Example from Life

On the first full moon of the year, villagers gather at dawn to raise their new jangseung.
Men pull ropes, women bring rice wine and food, and children laugh as the carved faces seem to come alive under the morning light.
When the jangseung finally stands tall, everyone bows, prays for good fortune, and sings together.

For generations, Jangseung Seugi Nori was more than ritual — it was the heart of the village, binding people together through shared faith and joy.

🌏 4. Similar Traditions Around the World

• Japan: Dosojin stone statues placed at village boundaries for protection.
• Southeast Asia: Totem or spirit pole rituals celebrating ancestors and nature.
• Indigenous cultures: Totem pole carvings honoring spirits and storytelling traditions.

✨ Jangseung Seugi Nori beautifully embodies Korea’s spirit of unity — showing how faith, art, and cooperation can stand tall together like the totems themselves.

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💌 Closing Words

Jangseung Seugi Nori is more than a village custom.
It reflects the Korean people’s deep respect for nature, harmony, and collective strength.
Through this sacred yet playful event, they built not only wooden guardians, but the invisible bonds of trust and community.

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📌 Note
This is a creative cultural content from the Misojieum Story Blog (kor-telling.com).
Please do not copy without permission.
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