This highly engaging volume by one of Korea’s leading scholars of comparative mythology – the the first study of its kind in English – provides a valuable introduction to centuries-old beliefs, myths and folk tales relating to Cosmology and Flood, Birth and Agriculture, Messengers of the Underworld, Shamans, Disease, Good Fortune, Love and Family, Gods of Village Shrines, and Heroes. Containing thirty traditional stories, the book is fully illustrated throughout and contains a wide variety of Korean art, including rare shamanist paintings, as well as the work of some contemporary Korean artists. All the stories, based on Korean oral tradition, have been retold by the author according to their main plot and meaning because the original texts’ songs by shamans, containing many obsolete words and obscure idioms, are not easily understood today. The original title and source, including text notes, are provided at the end of each story. The author’s Introduction sets out the historical background and significance of the myths that appear here. He also provides full details of each of the Korean gods and their roles in mythology. While being a welcome addition to the literature on Korean culture for the non-specialist, An Illustrated Guide to Korean Mythology also provides an invaluable reference source for scholars and researchers in the fields of East Asian Mythology and Anthropology, as well as Korean History, Religion and Literature.

This classic collection of Korean folk and fairy tales is of cultural enormous importance for Koreans and Westerners alike. First published in 1913 but regrettably long out of print, this fascinating little volume is now made available once again for the enjoyment of all who love an ancient tale, particularly if the setting is an exotic one. Of the legends collected here, Mr. Gale has this to say in his preface: "To anyone who would like to look somewhat into the inner soul of the Oriental, and see the peculiar spiritual existences among which he lives, the… stories will serve as true interpreters, born as they are of the three great religions of the Far East, Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism." The stories of classical Korean storyteller Im Bang, in particular, offer to the Western world "that they may serve as introductory essays to the mysteries and, what many call, absurdities of Asia. Very gruesome indeed, and unlovely, some of them are, but they picture faithfully the conditions under which Im Bang himself, and many past generations of Koreans, have lived."

Have you ever wondered about the ancient tales that shaped Korea's cultural identity? What mystical beings populate the folklore of the Korean peninsula? How do age-old myths continue to influence modern Korean society? "Korean Mythology (Illustrated): Myths and Legends of Heroes and Monsters from Sacred Lands and Mystic Seas" brings to life the fascinating world of Korean folklore. This illustrated volume showcases the diverse array of mythical figures and legendary tales, including: The creation myth of Dangun, founder of the first Korean kingdom Mischievous dokkaebi goblins and shape-shifting gumiho foxes Powerful mountain gods and benevolent spirits of sacred trees Fearsome dragons and their underwater realms Through engaging narratives and detailed illustrations, readers will discover: The intricate web of Korean myths and their cultural significance How these ancient stories continue to shape modern Korean beliefs The role of shamanism in preserving and transmitting these tales The symbolism behind Korea's most iconic mythical creatures Each myth is accompanied by carefully crafted illustrations that bring these legendary beings and mythical scenes to life. From fearsome monsters to heroic figures, every character is depicted in vivid detail, allowing readers to visualize the rich world of Korean mythology. Whether you're a folklore enthusiast, interested in Korean culture, or simply appreciate mythological art, this book offers a unique exploration of Korea's legendary past. Dive into the enchanting realm of Korean mythology today. Let these timeless tales and striking images introduce you to a world where myths and monsters come alive on the page.

This book is dedicated to exploring the gods and goddesses that the Koreans of old worshiped, and within the pages you will find more information about: Strange creatures from Korean mythology. The Korean mythology of Tangu and Ahri. Gods and goddesses, and their background stories, from Korean mythology. Supernatural powers, relationships, and dramatic legends. Persisting values from Korean mythology that are present today. Korean mythology is intricate, complex, and the ideals behind some of their mythological beliefs were often intertwined with real life events. This book will examine how both myth and fact contributed to the culture and traditions of the Korean, and how these influences and some stories continue to live on throughout the centuries. Add this book to cart now.

This book contains 175 tales drawn equally from the ancient and modern periods of Korea, plus 16 further tales provided for comparative purposes. Nothing else on this scale or depth is available in any western language. Three broad classes of material are included: foundation myths of ancient states and clans, ancient folktales and legends, modern folktales. Each narrative contains information on its source and provenance, and on its folklore type, similarities to folklore types from China, Japan and elsewhere.

Myths, legends, and folklore are more than incredible and magical stories and tales. They have a profound purpose in the human world. They explain how human beings perceived and tried to understand how our world operated. Myths give us insight into the working of the human mind from ancient times. Myths are timeless and offer guidance and solutions to many of our problems and misunderstandings. Korean mythology and folklore is full of gods, goddesses, and deities, drawn from the rich heritage of the primary belief systems. Known as "Shin," which means deity or spirit, they are supernatural beings endowed with the power to influence the human world. Shins are served by female shamans known as Mudang, especially during Gut or sacred rituals. Each god is given responsibility for a special area, although these vary depending on which version of the myth is being told. 

A collection of twenty traditional Korean legends and folktales.