nongak
Nongak, also written nong-ak, is a form of traditional Korean agricultural music and ritual performance performed by farming communities. It blends singing, dancing, and percussion to accompany field work, harvest celebrations, and village ceremonies. The performances are typically participatory, inviting audience involvement and fostering social cohesion within the community.
The core ensembles of nongak rely on percussion and ensemble cooperation. Typical instruments include buk (barrel
Origins of nongak lie in agrarian life and shamanic ritual practices in rural Korea. It developed as
In modern times, nongak experienced revival and formal preservation as part of Korea’s intangible cultural heritage.
Nongak remains a symbol of communal identity and continuity, preserving techniques, songs, and dances passed down