A shaman climbs a rock to pray at a sacred site on Mount Inwang in central Seoul, Sept. 2. Korea Times photo by Ha Sang-yoon Editor’s note For three months, the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, visited fortune-telling shops and shamanic prayer sites across the country to shed light on the two faces of shamanism in our society.
We also explored the current status of shamanism and examined the future path of this tradition. The following article is the last in a four-part series. By KTimes Kim Dan-wol (pseudonym), a shaman, does not advertise herself.
She refuses to participate in YouTube or broadcast media, even when approached for TV appearances. Although fame might bring wealth and luxury, it would also leave her with less time to pray to the spirits and fewer opportunities to meet those who are truly in need. After receiving her spiritual calling three years ago, Kim devotes herself to praying for her followers, stating that her greatest happiness comes from seeing them find peace and thrive.
"The image of shamanism has been tarnished by shamans who are focused only on making money," Kim said. She said that prioritizing money has sidelined proper rituals and traditions, and the world of shamanism became confused due to unchecked spiritual callings. She said that some shamans, unable to attract clients, resort to manipulative YouTube content, leading to a vicious cycle of exploitation.
"This world isn’t inherently bad. Shamans possess abilities th.
