The exact period when shamanism started in Korea is unknown; however, it is said to have appeared from the archaic period in 1000 BC. It is known to be the native religion of Korea, preceding the introduction of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism.

 

In ancient Korea, shamanic rituals were used to honor celestial and ancestral deities. Most of these ceremonies involved farming or hunting, praying, or showing gratitude for a bountiful harvest because agriculture was the main economic activity in traditional Korean society and was necessary to maintain royal control. Shamans were very powerful back then.

 

As time progressed, Shamanism’s influence receded with the introduction of Buddhism and Confucianism. However, it was still an impactful religion with the royal family still using Shamans. Starting from the 14th century Joseon dynasty, once Korea had solidified its prominent religion as Buddhism (state ideology) and Confucianism (National religions), the government and people started to block off Shamanism in Korea and turned it into a hatred target.

 

A lot of the Shamans were suppressed by the Confucianism elites through taxation and legal restrictions. This has carried throughout modern times; however, the influence that Shamanism imprints into the history and the modern society is not to be ignored.