Re-enactment of traditional mission to Japan kicks off
- Contents
-
The two neighboring countries Korea and Japan sought to promote peaceful relations and recognize each other’s sovereignty by dispatching envoys to each other during the 17th-19th centuries.
This year marks the 401st anniversary of Korea sending the cultural mission "Joseon Tongsinsa" to Japan, and a historic parade took place in downtown Seoul Sunday (Apr. 13).
The dispatch of Korean envoys called "tongsinsa" began in 1607 to promote peace after a destructive seven-year war between the two sides, but its functions were later transformed into something more cultural.
During their year-long journey over land and sea from Seoul to Tokyo, the Korean delegation was treated as guests of state and their parade led to the transfer of Korea’s oriental medicine, music, choreography and other cultural traditions to Japan, according to historians. A total of 12 such teams of envoys were dispatched between 1607 and 1811.
The mission played a key role in introducing Korean culture, arts, science and technology to Japan, in addition to building peaceful and friendly relations. Between 400 and 500 people made up the mission. In return, the Japanese shogun sent trade missions to the king of Joseon.
More festivities to remember the diplomatic mission are scheduled throughout the year. A shamanic ritual will take place in the Korean port city of Busan in May. The ritual, known as "Hae sin jae," was held in the past to pray to the sea god for the safe voyage and success of the diplomatic mission prior to their departure to the island country.
A massive parade with about 2,000 participants will also take place in the port city, according to the Korean Tongshinsa Cultural Exchange Association, one of the organizing groups of the events.Similar parades and cultural events will also hit the road in August during the 2008 Joseon Tongsinsa Exchange Program in the Japanese City of Shimonoseki. In October, the Korean delegates will reach their final destination of Tokyo, where they will have another round of parades.
The source of news : Korea.net April 14, 2008
