visitseoul.net

Prayers for Peace and Abundance for the Nation 「2016 Sajik Daeje」

The great rite of Sajik Daeje is a ritual dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The great rite of Sajik Daeje is a ritual dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Sajik Daeje lives on today in Seoul and a historical re-enactment of the ritual is held once a year. Efforts to preseve this piece of Korean cultural heritage have lead to the Sajik Daeje's preservation.

On October 19, 2000, the Sajik Daeje, or "Great Rite for the Gods of Earth and Agriculture" was designated as Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 111. This yearly ceremonial rite was held to honor the ancestors and pay homage to the great gods of the land and grains. It was also held to pray for peace throughout the land and for prosperity of the people. At present, the Sajik Daeje Ceremonial Committee strives to preserve the tradition of this important historical rite.

For generations, Koreans were an agricultural people and relied on the land its harvest. Thus, Sajik Daeje was an extremely important ritual that held a significant place in society. However, Japanese powers forced the abolishment of Sajik Daeje in 1908 (the 2nd year of Sunjong’s reign). The rites were not carried out again until 1988 the Jeonju Lee Royal Family Association restored the practice of Sajik Daeje. The members of the association are descended from the Korean royal family, and the association presides over the ritual to this day.

The Sajik Daeje was a ritual of utmost importance and solemnity in the Joseon era. The rites were carried out by the kings, civic officials, and military officials. Today, the procession departs from Deoksugung Palace at 11:00 a.m. The procession winds its way past Sejong-ro, Gwanghwamun, and Sajik-ro to arrive at the Sajikandan Altar around 11:50 a.m. Additionally, on the day before the Sajik Daeje ritual, there will be a performance at 7:00 p.m. that is open to the public. The performance, called "Sajik Jeryeak in the Evening," will help attendees and the public better understand Sajik Daeje. The preservation and reenactment of Sajik Daeje has allowed for an increased recognition of Korean culture and heritage among Koreans and foreign visitors alike. The great rite of Sajik Daeje is an experience that should not be missed.

※ This is a 2017 event. Further information about this event in 2018 will be updated at a later date.