Korean Myths: Orally Transmitted Treasures (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798344052328)

Unveiling Korean Oral Myths: A Window into Ancient Imagination

Though many are familiar with Korea's written myths, its oral traditions remain a largely hidden treasure in the English-speaking world. This book introduces twenty-three captivating oral myths passed down through generations of shamans, offering profound insights into how ancient Koreans perceived the cosmos and navigated life's essential experiences-birth, love, illness, and death.

This collection is crafted for all readers, inviting them to explore Korea's rich cultural and philosophical heritage. These myths resonate with universal themes while embodying Korea's distinct worldview, providing a rare and meaningful lens through which to understand both the human condition and Korean culture.

In a fast-paced, technology-driven world, these ancient stories reconnect us to timeless wisdom, sparking imagination and creativity. They remind us of the power of storytelling to inspire, heal, and transform. Embark on this journey into Korean oral myths and uncover a world where ancient wisdom breathes life into modern perspectives.

Within these pages, encounter myths like the "Song of Genesis," "Jade Emperor and His Twin Sons," "Three Ash Brothers and Lady Yoo," "Flower Garden Superintendent," "Black Bowl Baby," "Seokga Yeorae and Danggeum-aegi," "Princess Bari," "Living Buddha and Smallpox God," "Sonnim-gut, Welcoming Rites for Guests," "Gangrim, the Human Messenger," "The Sun God and the Moon Goddess," "Saman's Evasion of Death," "Jangja Sama's Evasion of Death," "Jacheongbi, the Goddess of Agriculture," "Love Beyond Death, Bride Cheongjeong," "Heowoong-aegi," "Seongjo, the Guardian God of the House," "Seongju, the Household Guardian God," "Seven Brothers and Household Gods," "Lord Chilseong and His Seven Sons," "Today," "Emperor Semin," and "Gwenegitto, the God of Gwenegit"-each myth a vital part of Korea's mythic tradition, ready to enrich our understanding of life.