Culture

The Traditional Village Shamans of Jeju Island, South Korea: Photo Essay

The shamans of Jeju Island, South Korea, like other shamans across Asia, are village priests concerned with the physical and spiritual well-being of their community’s residents. These shaman, called shimbang, also serve in leadership roles, helping to settle disputes and organizing rituals. Traditionally, the position of shimbang on Jeju Island is inherited through family lineages, both females and males being selected by their parents. READ MORE