E2024-G108

Sajikdan Altar: Praying to the Spirits of the Land and Grain

Narrative

Sajikdan Altar refers to a place where rituals for the spirits of the land and grain were held. According to records, such altars existed in Korea since ancient times. During the Joseon period (1392-1910), they were established by the government in important locations across the country, including the capital. The Sajikdan Altar in Gwangju was located across Gwangjucheon Stream from Gwangjueupseong Walled Town, where the local government office was located. Gwangjuhyanggyo Local Confucian School, was located just to its north.

The altar was demolished in 1924 during the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945) to create a park to commemorate the marriage of Japan’s crown prince. In 1971, the city government built a zoo and swimming pool in the park. In the early 1990s, the zoo was relocated and the altar was rebuilt. Since 2016, the Sajikje Ritual has been reenacted at the altar as part of the Sajik Dano Festival. Located within Sajik Park are Gwandeokjeong Archery Center, Sajik Library, the Observation Tower of Sajik Park, and the Outdoor Performance Stage of Sajik Park, among other facilities.

Story Map

• Folk Spirit: Village Guardians and Community Traditions
  • Sajikdan Altar: Praying to the Spirits of the Land and Grain
  • Village Guardians: Local Trees and Shrines
  • Gwangju’s Farmers’ Music: Community Solidarity for Agricultural Abundance
  • Guardian Posts: Guiding the Way, Protecting the Village
  • The Loop Fight of Gwangju: Competition to Bring the Community Together