Experience the elegance and artistry of Korea's cultural heritage with captivating dance performances. From the revered Taepyeongmu, a dance of peace and prosperity, to the vibrant Jindo drum dance and the serene Chun Aeng Jeon, each performance tells a unique story through graceful movements and rich traditions.
1. Taepyeong-mu
Taepyeongmu, designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, is a dance that embodies the wish for a bountiful year and a peaceful reign. Its aesthetic hallmarks include quick footwork in rhythm with Gyeonggi Dodang-gut, along with elegant and precise dance movements, and a dignified upper-body motion.
Starring: Im Mi-rye, Kang Ju-hyeong, Jeong Da-eun, Park Seol-ah, Lee Ye-bon, Kim Yu-jin
2. 12chae Jango Dance
This Janggo dance features 12 distinct movements and incorporates elements that harmonise with nature. The names of the movements, inspired by plants, fish, and birds, highlight the deep connection between humans and nature. The dance’s joyfulness and elegance enhance its artistic quality while preserving dignity.
Starring: Im Mi-rye, Kang Ju-hyeong, Jeong Da-eun, Park Seol-ah, Lee Ye-bon, Kim Yu-jin
3. Cheoyongmu
It is the only court dance performed while wearing a mask in the form of a human being, symbolizing the chase of evil spirits and the prayer for peace. Compared to other Jeongjae dances, it features more elegant arm movements, greater power, deeper flexibility and a confident presence. Recognised for its diversity and creativity as a cultural heritage, it was designated as Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 39 in 1971 and was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.
Starring: Jeong Seonhwa, Jo Eunseo
4. Jindo drum dance
The dance is dynamic and features a striking combination of straight and curved movement. To perform it, divide the two bivalves. Holding one in each hand and lift them up. The dance evokes a sense of folk excitement and style through the harmony of Daesam and Sosam and the subtle gestures of returning combined with colorful footwork.
Starring: Jeong Seonhwa, Jo Eunseo
5. Chun aeng jeon [Dance of Spring Nightingale]
In the early spring morning, the shape of the night owl singing on a branch was expressed through dance. Various costumes, including yellow cherry blossoms, flower garlands, and red gems are considered among the most splendid works of court dance. Unlike other Jeongjae, Chun Aeng Jeon is an elegant solo dance performed very slowly on a limited painting stone of six characters in length. It is distinguished by its highly symbolic nature. It is said that Prince Hyo Myung also praised it, stating "Maybe my favorite dance is Chun-Angjeon or Hanora."
Starring: Jeong Seon-hwa
6. Musanhyang
Musanhyang is a dance performed on the 玳瑁盤, a small stage shaped like a bed (寢牀). While the dance and costumes (舞服) are similar to those of Chun-Angjeon, they differ in that Musahnhyang conveys a more stately and dynamic impression.
Starring: Cho Eun-seo