Goryeo

Definition

Goryeo was a Korean dynastic kingdom that lasted from 918 to 1392, known for its cultural achievements and the establishment of significant court music traditions, including Aak, Dangak, and Hyangak. This era marked the integration of various musical styles and instruments, greatly influencing the development of Korean music and art, as well as the political structure of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Goryeo was instrumental in the evolution of Korean culture, particularly through its advancements in literature, art, and music during its reign.
2. The kingdom's name 'Goryeo' is the origin of the modern name 'Korea,' illustrating its historical significance.
3. During Goryeo, Aak was officially adopted as court music, reflecting Confucian values and influences from China.
4. Dangak emerged as a distinct genre during Goryeo, combining local musical practices with elements introduced by cultural exchanges with neighboring countries.
5. Hyangak served as a means of preserving and promoting folk traditions while coexisting with the formal court music styles like Aak and Dangak.

Review Questions

• How did Goryeo contribute to the development of court music traditions such as Aak, Dangak, and Hyangak?
  • Goryeo played a vital role in shaping court music traditions by establishing Aak as the formal court music that embodied Confucian ideals. The integration of Dangak marked a significant development in Korean music as it combined local styles with foreign influences. Hyangak also flourished during this period, preserving traditional folk elements that enriched the overall musical landscape of Goryeo.
• Analyze how the cultural exchanges during Goryeo influenced the characteristics of Dangak as a court music genre.
  • Cultural exchanges during Goryeo brought in diverse musical influences from neighboring regions, particularly China. This interaction allowed Dangak to evolve by incorporating new instruments and melodic structures while maintaining core aspects of Korean musical identity. The blending of these influences helped establish Dangak as a unique genre reflective of both indigenous and foreign traditions.
• Evaluate the impact of Goryeo’s musical traditions on contemporary Korean music and culture.
  • The musical traditions established during Goryeo laid the foundation for contemporary Korean music by preserving essential elements that continue to resonate today. The blend of court music like Aak and folk traditions such as Hyangak contributed to a rich cultural heritage that informs modern performances and compositions. Understanding these historical roots allows for a deeper appreciation of how ancient practices have evolved into contemporary expressions in Korea's vibrant music scene.

Related terms

Aak: Aak is a genre of traditional court music in Korea that has roots in ancient Chinese music, characterized by its formal and ceremonial nature.

Dangak: Dangak refers to a style of Korean court music developed during the Goryeo period, incorporating elements from both native and foreign influences, often performed with a variety of traditional instruments.

Hyangak: Hyangak is a form of Korean folk music that reflects local traditions and customs, playing a crucial role in the musical identity of the Goryeo period.