Culture #5 – Jongmyo Jeryeak: A Musical Tribute to the Ancestors

                                    Everyday Culture, Everyday Wonder  

                                          Simple traditions, rich stories

Have you ever wondered what the most solemn and majestic music in Korea is? It's Jongmyo Jeryeak, a truly unique piece of Korean heritage.

This isn't just a concert; it's a profound ritual combining music, song, and dance. For centuries, it has honored the spirits of past kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty at their royal ancestral shrine, Jongmyo.

What is Jongmyo Jeryeak?

Jongmyo Jeryeak is a comprehensive art form that harmoniously blends music, song, and dance. Its purpose is to perform the Confucian rites for the royal ancestors. The word itself tells the story: "Jongmyo" (종묘) is the royal shrine, "Jerye" (제례) means ancestral rites, and "ak" (악) means music. Together, they represent the ultimate state ritual music.

This photo shows a dignified scene of Jongmyo Jeryeak, with musicians in red robes playing traditional instruments during a royal ancestral ritual.

A Brief History

The roots of this music go back to the Goryeo Dynasty, when a form of Chinese ritual music was adopted. However, it was during the Joseon Dynasty that Jongmyo Jeryeak was transformed into a distinct Korean art form.

• King Sejong the Great, a legendary figure in Korean history, created the musical system and compositions.

• King Sejo, his successor, refined these works into the form we see today, completing the musical masterpiece.

Today, this incredible tradition continues. Every year on the first Sunday of May, the grand Jongmyo Daeje (Royal Ancestral Rite) is held, where Jongmyo Jeryeak is performed.

Because of its historical and cultural significance, it has been designated as Korea's National Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 1 (1964) and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (2001).

The Three Components

Jongmyo Jeryeak is a beautiful symphony of three main elements: music, song, and dance.

1. Music (Ak): The instruments used are traditional Korean instruments like the pyeonjong (bronze bells), pyeongyeong (stone chimes), daegeum (bamboo flute), and gayageum (zither). The music is divided into two main suites:

   • Botaepyeong: Praises the King's civil virtues and prays for a peaceful nation.

   • Jeongdae-eop: Celebrates the military achievements of the royal ancestors.

2. Song (Ga): The songs, or lyrics, are called akjang. They are sung to the music, praising the virtues and accomplishments of the kings.

3. Dance (Mu): The dances, known as ilmu, are performed in precise rows.

   • Munmu (Civil Dance): A graceful and restrained dance that symbolizes civil governance. Dancers hold a flute in one hand and a pheasant feather in the other.

   • Mumu (Military Dance): A dynamic dance symbolizing military prowess. Dancers wield swords and spears.

Why It's So Special

Jongmyo Jeryeak is a living piece of history that embodies key Confucian values like filial piety and loyalty. It's a comprehensive art form where music, song, and dance unite to create a powerful and moving experience.

Beyond being a performance, it serves as a powerful symbol of the Joseon Dynasty's legitimacy and majesty. By experiencing this tradition, you get a glimpse into the heart of Korean culture and its deep reverence for history and ancestors.

Jongmyo Jeryeak is more than just ancient music—it’s a living tradition that continues to echo through time. Its solemn melodies and majestic dances show the world the profound beauty and depth of Korean culture.