How Do You Spell KOREAN MYTHOLOGY?

Pronunciation: [kɔɹˈiːən mɪθˈɒləd͡ʒi] (IPA)

Korean mythology is the body of myths and legends that have been passed down orally and depicted in various forms of art. The spelling of "Korean" in phonetic transcription is /kəˈriən/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by a stressed "r" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "ee" with a short "a" sound. Together, they form the word that represents the rich cultural heritage of Korea, including its beliefs about the creation of the world, the supernatural beings that inhabit it, and the heroes who shape its history.

KOREAN MYTHOLOGY Meaning and Definition

1. Korean mythology refers to the collection of traditional beliefs, legends, folktales, and mythical narratives that have been passed down through generations in Korean culture. It constitutes the rich and diverse system of myths and legends that explain the origins, supernatural beings, deities, and important events within the Korean worldview.

   Korean mythology is deeply rooted in shamanistic practices, ancestor worship, and Confucian principles. It encompasses various themes such as creation myths, gods and goddesses, supernatural creatures, spirits, and heroic figures. These stories often serve as moral lessons or explanations for natural phenomena and societal customs.

   Some prominent elements of Korean mythology include the mythology surrounding the Three Sovereigns and the Five Emperors, who were regarded as the founders of Korean civilization, as well as the myths about Dangun, the legendary founder of the first Korean kingdom, Gojoseon. Other popular figures in Korean mythology include the mountain spirit, the dragon king, various animal deities, immortals, and the legendary nine-tailed fox, among others.

   Korean mythology often intertwines with historical events and cultural practices, providing a unique perspective on the Korean people's perception of the world and their spiritual beliefs. Through the study of Korean mythology, one can gain insights into the values, symbolism, and cultural heritage that have shaped the Korean society, serving as a vital source for understanding the Korean identity and its historical development.

Etymology of KOREAN MYTHOLOGY

The etymology of the term "Korean mythology" can be traced back to the two main components: "Korean" and "mythology".

The word "Korean" refers to the ethnonational group and the Korean Peninsula. It is derived from the Goryeo dynasty, which ruled Korea from the 10th to the 14th century. The English term "Korean" has its origin in the Old English word "Corean" or "Coreane", which was adopted from the Italian word "Corea".

The term "mythology" comes from the Greek words "mythos" meaning "story" or "myth" and "logia" meaning "the study of" or "collection of". The word was first used in English in the early 19th century to refer to the traditional stories, legends, and beliefs of a particular culture or religion.