The Chilmeoridang Yeongdeung Shamanic Rite was recently added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
The Yeongdeung shamanic rite, called a 'gut' in Korean, is held to pray for a good catch and bountiful harvest.
This particular rite is held in several places, but the one performed at the Chilmeoridang, or shrine, is considered the finest in Jeju.
It's held each February according to the lunar calendar, when the spring frost comes, and is representative of the festivals of the rich marine culture of the island.
The Chilmeoridang Yeongdeung Gut was already recognized as a valuable cultural asset in Korea, having been selected as a National Important Intangible Cultural Heritage Asset back in 1980.
The UNESCO designation gives international recognition to this national treasure.
[Interview : Kim Yoon-su
Performer of shaman rite] "I'm very happy to hear the news and I feel a greater sense of responsibility to work harder to preserve and develop the shaman rite since it's now a world cultural heritage."
Now that not only Jeju's nature but also an aspect of its culture has received recognition by UNESCO, the value of the island's brand has increased.
If the Yeongdeung Gut is developed for tourism purposes, it will contribute to the growth of the local economy.
[Interview : Moon Mu-byeong, Chairman
Jeju Traditional Culture Research Institute] "I expect more tourists and scholars to come to Jeju to learn, see and hear about our culture, so Jeju becomes an important hub of Asian culture."
The government is likely to provide financial aid in order to preserve the practice of shamanic rites in Jeju and provide support to those who can perform them.
The value of the Chilmeori-Dang Yeongdeung Gut has now become appreciated even beyond the borders of Korea.
The UNESCO designation provides a great opportunity for the international promotion of its unique culture.
Heo Ji-yun, KCTV.
OCT 06, 2009
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Friday, SEP 03, 2010, (KST) 
