Pungmulnori: Korean folk music

One of the representative dances of Korea is the Pungmulnori. Not only is it considered as one of the oldest and most popular folk arts of Korea but this is one art which is deeply rooted in its farming lifestyle and culture. Pungmulnori is a type of art which includes drumming, dancing and singing and was originally played to wish for a good harvest of the year and other collective farming operations of the community as well as in various occasions, celebrations, festivities, and during planting and harvesting seasons.

Pungmulnori is traditionally performed outdoors and drumming is the fundamental element. The basic instruments used are the kkwaenggawari (small gong), changgo (two-headed hourglass drum), ching (large gong), and puk (barrel shaped drum). In some instances, wind instruments are included such as the nabal (long trumpet), or the taepyongso (conical oboe). Aside from the drummers the dancers often play the sogo (tiny drum) and perform acrobatic movements. All the performers are dressed in colorful costumes. Some would even wear hats with a long ribbon attached to it that would create elaborate patterns whenever the performers move their head while spinning and flipping.

While court music faded with the dynasties, Pungmulnori to this day, still lives on in Korea.