Ssitkim-gut

SSitkim-gut is a shaman ritual for consoling the dead that is performed on Jindo Island in South Korea.

In Asian mythology, ghosts of the dead are despondent at death. This traditional dance is performed to attract their attention, and to console their surviving loved ones.

Also in certain Asian traditions, it is normal to have a relationship with deceased loved ones (family). This is done out of respect for the dead, and may be indicative of ancestor worship.

However, ancestor worship is not done as a superstition but also out of respect for the ages-old cycle of birth, life and death.

For such respect is a sign of a rich, vibrant culture on Jindo Island.

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Jindo Island: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jindo_%28island%29