While Jeju is mostly recognized for its incredible landscapes and natural attractions, the island is also home to a unique and rich culture that reflects the resilience, spirit and tenacity of its people. Proof of that is Gwandeokjeong Pavilion, one of the oldest standing buildings located at the heart of Jeju City. Originally built in 1448 while King Sejong was governing Joseon Dynasty, Gwandeokjeong served as a training ground that invigorated the mind and soul of soldiers that lived here.

Throughout the years and despite the isolation and difficulties that are characteristic of islands, society flourished and found comfort in their own resources. Proof of that are the thirty different paintings included in the 1702 book ‘Tamna Sunyukdo,’ depicting the lifestyle, habits and folklore of each village that inhabited the land. One of them, titled ‘Gyulim Pungak’ shows a scene of a tangerine field, where a troupe of pungak (unique Korean music that has been handed down from the past) players are dancing and entertaining a shaman. One could wonder how, despite famine and exploitation that came from the mainland, people still had enough energy to perform energetically. The answer is that the painting is a perfect reflection of the earnest vitality of Jeju people.

The legacy of both the pavilion and the painting – the latter being currently reinterpreted as an act that combines traditional instrumental music and modern street dance – will be celebrated in six monthly performances from March until October. Organized by the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province World Heritage Department, each presentation will be carried out in front of Gwandeokjeong Pavilion with free admission after 6 p.m. on the last Saturday of every month.

Last year, the interpretation was carried out only two times: once in May and another in October. It usually included various programs such as traditional folk ceremonies and dances, as well as pansori. This year, performances by the Jeju Provincial Dance Company and the Jeju Provincial Symphony Orchestra are the main highlights, with other staples like Korean traditional music and modern music crossover acts, and small concerts by popular singers.

As a side event, on the last Friday of every month, busking performances based on different musical genres are going to take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. These vary from classical music to flamenco played with Korean traditional instruments. For more information on both the Friday and Saturday performances, please visit the website of the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province World Heritage Department.