Shaman Traditional Dance

Shaman, or mudang, is a self–elected specialist (usually female) with no central authority or doctrine who intercedes with the spirit world on behalf of the earth. The shaman is also viewed as a prophetess, healer, artist and entertainer. Shamans are allowed to adhere to other religions and as a result, shamanism shares strong links to Buddhism. Despite official disapproval under the Yi dynasty (1392–1910), shamanism influenced courtly music and dance, where traditional movements sought to reach a state of trance, such as hopping and stepping, walking back and forth in a circular pattern, and rising on toes.