Korea's National Foundation Day (개천절), celebrated annually on October 3rd, commemorates the founding of Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom, based on the Dangun mythology. In this post, I will introduce the background, history, and modern-day celebrations of National Foundation Day.
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1. Origin & History
National Foundation Day(개천절) is a celebration of the establishment of Gojoseon, based on the Dangun legend. Dangun considered the inaugural ruler of Gojoseon, is historically recognized as having ascended to the throne in 2333 B.C.
This particular date signifies the genesis of the Korean populace and establishes Dangun as a progenitor of the Korean people. Gojoseon occupies a crucial role in Korean history, shaping the development of a collective national identity.
National Foundation Day was initially created to commemorate the establishment of Gojoseon. It was recognized as an official royal ceremony during the Joseon Dynasty. Following Korea's liberation, in 1949, National Foundation Day was officially declared a national holiday, signifying its significance to the Korean population.
2. Dangun Myth
Here is the story of National Foundation Day. It is called the Dangun Myth(단군 신화); the Myth about Dangun, the first king of Gojoseon(고조선).
Once upon a time, in the land of the heavens, there lived a great god named Hwan-in(환인). His song, Hwan-ung(환웅) was interested in Earth. He wanted to benefit the people down on Earth. So, Hwan-in decided to send Hwan-ung down to the world. He gave three treasures that symbolized the kingship of heaven. Hwan-ung came down to the Shindasu tree on Taebaek Mountain with three vassals who could control wind, clouds, and rain and three thousand followers.
While Hwan-ung was ruling the world, a bear and a tiger came to him. Both animals wanted to become human. Hwanung gave a bear and a tiger a handful of mugwort and garlic and told them that if they ate these and avoided sunlight for a hundred days, they would become human.
The tiger and the bear went to the cave and followed what Hwan-ung said. However, the tiger couldn't bear this difficult task and ran away from the cave. The bear continued staying and eventually turned into a human! So she was called Ung-nyeo(웅녀, bear woman).
Ung-nyeo didn't have anyone to marry. So, she prayed to have a baby for a long time. Hwan-ung married Ung-nyeo and they got a son named Dangun Wanggeom(단군 왕검).
In 2333 BC, Dangun Wanggeom established a country in Pyongyang and named it Joseon(조선). Soon after, Dangun Wanggeom moved the capital to Asadal on Baekak Mountain. Dangun Wanggeom ruled the country peacefully there for 1,500 years. Afterwards, he entered Asadal and became a mountain god at the age of 1,908.
So, Joseon is considered the first country that was established on the Korean peninsula. The reason why it is called Gojoseon(고조선) is that in 1392 A.C. Lee Seong-gye established a new country named after this Jo-seon. So, people named the original Joseon as 고조선(old Joseon) to distinguish the two.
3. Modern Commemorations
Modern-day Korea organizes different activities to observe National Foundation Day. Among these, a significant event is the traditional rituals performed at the Dangun Shrine in Seoul. These ceremonies honor Dangun and contemplate the beginnings of the Korean nation. Additionally, schools and public entities nationwide arrange events or educational initiatives in recognition of National Foundation Day.
개천절 is a national holiday. So many people come together with their families and contemplate history and culture. Moreover, certain areas organize grand festivals, such as parades.
4. Significance and Importance
National Foundation Day is not only a celebration but also a symbol of the Korean people's identity. It provides Koreans with an opportunity to contemplate their origins, pay tribute to the past, and look toward the future. Observing National Foundation Day allows individuals to delve into Dangun's narrative, gain insight into Korean history, and embrace their Korean heritage with pride.
Moreover, National Foundation Day also carries a wish for reunification and peace for the Korean Peninsula. Many Koreans emphasize national unity and harmony on this day, holding hope for the future.
5. Conclusion: National Foundation Day
National Foundation Day is an important occasion to celebrate the founding of Gojoseon and to reflect on the identity and history of the Korean people. This day provides an opportunity for Koreans to cherish their roots and culture, maintaining its significant meaning in modern Korean society.
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