Tour to give a taste of shamanistic dance

A day trip is being held to give people the chance to experience Korean culture, food and shamanistic dance on Sept. 28.

Hosted by Korean food consultancy Zenkimchi International and food communications company Plan EL, the tour will travel from Seoul to Cheongpyeong Lake in Gyeonggi Province and cross by ferry to a traditional hanok home.

There, they will be given a full Korean lunch of local, seasonal food, and take in a “neokjeon” performance by Buddhist monk Hyein, who is also a shamanistic dance master and has been nominated for national cultural treasure status. 

The neokjeon dance is performed to comfort spirits, using paper cut-outs to represent people and gods, and is the origin of the “salpuri” dance. Neokjeon has religious elements, but organizers say it is also appreciated for its drama, entertainment and spontaneity.

Hyein will teach the guests neokjeon dancing, singing and meditation, after which they will share tea and snacks.

Participation in the dance and meditation is optional. English interpretation will be provided.

The trip costs 88,000 won, and a vegetarian option is available. Bookings must be made by Sept. 18.

For more information or to reserve a space, contact Joe McPherson at joe@zenkimchi.com or Veronica Kang at dining.kang@gmail.com.

By Paul Kerry (paulkerry@heraldcorp.com)