A Study on the Designation and Inheritance of Intangible Cultural Properties in South Korea

As a Case Study of Kut

Abstract

Miscellaneous intangible cultural properties with different characteristics coexist in the system of protection of intangible properties in South Korea. These varied characteristics not being well considered, the protection and management system is somewhat defective. Further, despite the fact that circumstances surrounding the inheritance of each folk-performing art designated as an important intangible cultural property are different, the current system for protection of intangible properties protect and manage all of them uniformly. Thus, the effectiveness of protection is questionable in some cases. With the question in mind, this study takes up Kut (practices of exorcises), a Korean folk-performing art, as a case. Kut which is considered to be the most folkloric amongst intangible cultural properties is designated as a ceremonial important intangible cultural property and is protected in the same way as other national ceremonies and Confucius ceremonies. However, despite its national protection, Kut is on the verge of extinction due to the changes in the social circumstances. First of all, this paper studies problems concerning the inheritance of Kut, with a focus on the East Coast Kut, an important intangible cultural property. Then, it analyzes problems pertaining to the current South Korean system for protection of intangible properties. Finally, it attempts to elucidate the tasks necessary for future protection policies.