Introduction:

The legend of Dangun, and the associated "Oath of Dangun," is a cornerstone myth originating from Korean folklore. It’s a foundational narrative that attempts to explain the origins of the Korean people and their civilization. This story was traditionally passed down through generations, serving as a cultural touchstone and a way to understand the past as perceived by ancient Koreans. It is essential to understand that this is a traditional story, a product of human imagination and cultural storytelling, not a historical or religious truth.

Origins and Cultural Background:

The Dangun myth is believed to have emerged during the Gojoseon period (c. 2333 BCE – 108 BCE), Korea’s first kingdom, though the earliest written record of the myth appears much later in the 13th-century historical text, the Samguk Yusa (Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms). The society of that time was deeply connected to nature and animistic beliefs, attributing spirits and powers to natural elements like mountains, rivers, and animals. Shamanism was also a prominent practice, with shamans acting as intermediaries between the human world and the spirit realm.

The people of Gojoseon likely viewed the world as a place where the spiritual and physical realms were intertwined. Natural phenomena were often explained through the actions of deities and spirits. The concept of divine lineage and a sacred connection to the land were also central to their worldview, contributing to the development of a foundation myth like the Dangun legend. This story helped to establish a shared identity and a sense of cultural unity.

Character Description:

Dangun, the central figure of the myth, is portrayed as the grandson of Hwanin, the Lord of Heaven. Hwanin’s son, Hwanung, desired to live among humans and bring them civilization. He descended to Earth with a retinue of spirits controlling wind, rain, and clouds.

Symbolically, Hwanin represents the celestial realm and divine authority, while Hwanung embodies the desire for enlightenment and the ability to bring order and knowledge to the human world. Dangun himself is depicted as a wise and benevolent ruler, a bridge between the divine and the human, who taught the people agriculture, governance, and ethical principles. The bear and the tiger, who sought to become human, represent the potential for transformation and the challenges involved in achieving spiritual or personal growth. The bear’s eventual success and transformation into Ungnyeo, Dangun’s mother, symbolized perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity.

Main Story / Narrative Retelling:

Once upon a time, in the realm above the clouds, Hwanin, the Lord of Heaven, looked down upon the world below. His son, Hwanung, expressed a profound longing to live among humans and bring them order and prosperity. Seeing his son’s sincere desire, Hwanin granted him permission to descend to Earth, bestowing upon him three seals and commanding him to govern the land.

Hwanung, accompanied by three thousand followers and spirits controlling the wind, rain, and clouds, descended to the foot of Mount Taebaek (now known as Mount Myohyang). There, he established a sacred city called Sinsi, from where he began to guide and govern the human world. He taught the people agriculture, medicine, arts, and ethical codes.

One day, a bear and a tiger approached Hwanung, pleading with him to transform them into humans. Moved by their earnest desire, Hwanung gave them a bundle of sacred mugwort and twenty cloves of garlic, instructing them to eat only these and avoid the sunlight for one hundred days.

The tiger, impatient and unable to endure the strict regimen, soon gave up and left the cave. However, the bear persevered, patiently enduring the darkness and consuming only the mugwort and garlic. After twenty-one days, the bear miraculously transformed into a beautiful woman named Ungnyeo.

Ungnyeo, filled with gratitude, longed to have a child. She prayed to Hwanung beneath a sacred tree. Hwanung, moved by her sincerity, took her as his wife, and she gave birth to a son, Dangun Wanggeom, who would become the founder of Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom.

Dangun established his capital at Asadal and ruled his people with wisdom and benevolence. He taught them agriculture, crafts, and ethical principles, guiding them towards a prosperous and harmonious society. After ruling for 1,500 years, Dangun abdicated the throne and returned to the heavens, becoming a mountain spirit, a guardian of the Korean people.

Symbolism and Meaning:

The Dangun myth is rich in symbolism and offers insights into the beliefs and values of ancient Koreans. The story reflects the importance of agriculture, governance, and ethical conduct in their society. The descent of Hwanung from heaven can be interpreted as the introduction of civilization and advanced knowledge to the human world.

The transformation of the bear into a human symbolizes the potential for growth and transformation, highlighting the importance of perseverance and discipline. The story also emphasizes the connection between humans and nature, with the mountain serving as a sacred space and the bear representing the animal world.

The myth of Dangun served as a foundational narrative for the Korean people, providing them with a shared origin story and a sense of national identity. It reinforced the belief in a divine lineage and a sacred connection to the land, fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

Modern Perspective:

The Dangun myth continues to be a significant part of Korean culture, although it is now generally regarded as a symbolic story rather than a literal historical account. The myth is often referenced in literature, movies, and games, serving as a source of inspiration and cultural identity.

In modern Korean culture, Dangun is often viewed as a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage. The myth is taught in schools as part of Korean history and culture. The date of Dangun’s legendary founding of Gojoseon, October 3rd, is celebrated as National Foundation Day in South Korea.

Cultural studies scholars examine the myth for insights into ancient Korean beliefs, social structures, and worldview. The story’s themes of transformation, divine lineage, and the connection between humans and nature continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.

Conclusion:

The legend of Dangun and the Oath of Dangun is a captivating story originating from Korean folklore, offering insights into the beliefs, values, and worldview of ancient Koreans. It’s a product of human imagination and cultural storytelling, and we understand it as such. It is not a matter of religious belief or worship.

As Muslims, we acknowledge that only Allah is the true Creator and Sustainer of the universe. We recognize and respect the cultural heritage and storytelling traditions of different societies, appreciating the power of myths and legends to convey values, inspire creativity, and foster a sense of identity. These stories can teach us much about the human condition and the ways in which people have sought to understand their place in the world.