A Study of the Funeral Rites Characteristics of “Gulbongjeongchwalto” in “Garakgukgi”

This study examines the nature of the funeral rites of “Gulbongjeong󰠀chwalto” presented in the story “Garakgukgi” from the Samgukeusa. “Garakgukgi” is the mythical story of the birth of the ‘Su-ro’. Since myths are transmitted along with rituals, the character and meaning of the myths of aqueducts can be understood concretely only when the ritualistic aspects appearing in the myths of aqueducts are clearly identified. In “Garakgukgi,” the portion pertaining to the birth of “Su-ro” is subdivided into two parts: before and after the birth of Su-ro. The birth of Su-ro signifies the emergence of a new king, while simultaneously signifying the death of the former ruler. In other words, the birth of Su-ro in “Garakgukgi”contains two events: the rite for the birth of a new king and the funeral rites of the former ruler. This is also illustrated through the placement of the tomb of the ancient ruler, “Jiseokmyo,” above that of “Gujibong,” and the rite for the birth of a Su-ro being performed on Gujibong. In this study, folklore materials handed down until today were used to investigate the characteristics of the funeral rites of “Gulbongjeongchwalto.” First, we examined the relationship between the custom of “Jejeol” and “Gulbongjeongchwalto” among the funeral methods handed down in Jeju Island today. Second, we discovered the tradition of singing and dancing to pray for the birth of a new life in the funeral process through the “Dasiraegi”, a funeral method in Jindo where the ancient funeral method called “double funeral” is handed down. “Gulbongjeongchwalto” and “Gujiga” performances consist of praying for the birth of descendants and the transmission of sacredness, raising the possibility that it would be passed down to future generations.