| Dangun | |
 . | |
| Birth: | c.2333 BC |
| Death: | 425 BC |
| Age: | 1908 years |
| Country: |  PRK
|
| Longevity myth | |
Dangun (c.2333 BC- 425 BC) also spelled as Tangun, is a legendary figure in Korean history, traditionally regarded as the founder and first king of Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom. His story, It was first recorded in a book written by a monk. There is no record or reference to it in books of neighboring countries. There has never been any record of it in Korean historical records before this, and Korean historians have regarded it as unofficial history since then. In modern times, after the Japanese occupation of Korea, because of Japan's assimilation policy, Dangun was revered by the Korean nationalist historian Shin Chae-ho (1880–1936), who claimed that Koreans were descendants of Dangun. It was not until 1950 that Korea first regarded Dangun as part of traditional history, has played a significant role in shaping the national identity and cultural consciousness of the Korean people.
Biography[]
Mythological Origins[]
The earliest recorded version of the Dangun legend appears in the 13th-century text Samguk Yusa (三國遺事, "Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms"), which cites the now-lost Korean historical record Gogi (古記) and China's Book of Wei as sources.However, there is no records related to Dangun in the current surviving version of the Book of Wei. Among them, the founding myth of the country in 2333 BC also includes garlic, but it was not introduced to East Asia until 119 BC via the Silk Road.There is no record of Tangun in the history books of China and Japan. There were written records in Korea in the 4th and 5th centuries, and the earliest official history book was in 1145 AD, and there was no relevant record. After this book written by a monk appeared, it was classified as unreliable unofficial history by Korean historians and was not included in the official history until around 1950, when Korea first regarded it as history.
According to this legend, Dangun's ancestry begins with his grandfather Hwanin (환인), the "Lord of Heaven." Hwanin had a son, Hwanung (환웅), who yearned to live on Earth among its valleys and mountains. Hwanin permitted Hwanung and 3,000 followers to descend onto Mount Taebaek (often identified with Mount Paektu), where Hwanung founded Sinsi (신시, "City of God"). There, he established laws, moral codes, and taught humans various arts, medicine, and agriculture. Legend attributes the development of acupuncture and moxibustion to Dangun.
In this celestial realm, a bear and a tiger prayed to Hwanung to become human. Moved by their plea, Hwanung provided them with twenty cloves of garlic and a bundle of mugwort, instructing them to consume only these and remain out of sunlight for 100 days. The tiger gave up after about twenty days, but the bear persevered and was transformed into a woman named Ungnyeo (웅녀). Ungnyeo, grateful for her transformation, prayed beneath a divine birch tree to be blessed with a child. Hwanung, moved by her prayers, took her as his wife, and she gave birth to a son named Dangun Wanggeom (단군왕검).
Foundation of Gojoseon[]
Dangun ascended to the throne and founded the kingdom of Joseon (not to be confused with the later Joseon Dynasty), known today as Gojoseon, around 2333 BCE. He established the walled city of Asadal near present-day Pyongyang as the capital. Dangun's reign is traditionally believed to have lasted for 1,500 years, during which he is said to have brought prosperity and peace to his people.
Cultural and National Significance[]
Dangun's legacy has profoundly influenced Korean culture and national identity. In modern times, October 3rd is celebrated as National Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol, 개천절) in South Korea, commemorating Dangun's founding of Gojoseon. This day is marked by various ceremonies and cultural events that honor the nation's mythical origins. In North Korea, the Mausoleum of Dangun, located near Pyongyang, is a significant historical site, reflecting the regime's emphasis on Dangun's legacy as a unifying national symbol.
Historical Interpretations[]
While the legend of Dangun is a cherished cultural narrative, historical evidence for his existence is limited, and his story is often viewed through the lens of mythology and nationalistic symbolism. The tale reflects themes of divine ancestry, the union of heaven and earth, and the establishment of societal order, resonating with the Korean people's sense of identity and continuity. Over centuries, the myth has been adapted and reinterpreted, serving various ideological and cultural purposes, including fostering national unity and pride.
Dangun in Modern Culture[]
Beyond historical texts, Dangun's influence permeates various aspects of Korean culture. In martial arts, for instance, the International Taekwon-Do Federation includes a pattern named "Dangun," symbolizing the legendary founder's significance. This pattern is taught to students as part of their progression, linking them to a deep cultural heritage.
In summary, Dangun stands as a central figure in Korean mythology, embodying the nation's origins, cultural values, and enduring spirit. Whether viewed as a historical founder or a mythological symbol, his legacy continues to shape Korea's cultural landscape and national consciousness.