Bongsoon Kim, Honorary Holder of 'Yangju Sonori Gut,' Passes Away

Leading Systematization by Planning Preservation Society Establishment and More

Kim Bong-sun, the honorary holder of the national intangible cultural asset 'Yangju Sonori Gut,' passed away on the 10th due to illness at the age of 86.

Yangju Sonori Gut is a traditional shamanistic ritual passed down mainly in Yangju, Gyeonggi Province. It carries the meaning of praying for the prosperity of the village and a bountiful harvest. It is praised for its refined commoner-style lyrics and the active participation of local residents.

According to the Cultural Heritage Administration, the late Kim began her career as a shaman at the age of 37 after receiving the initiation ritual. Her connection with Yangju Sonori Gut dates back to 1971. She took the lead in systematizing the ritual by establishing a preservation society together with the late Kim In-gi, a holder of the tradition. Since Yangju Sonori Gut was designated as a national intangible cultural asset in 1980, she consistently participated in public events and was recognized as a holder in 2013. She devoted herself to the transmission of the tradition and became an honorary holder in March due to old age and health reasons.

She is survived by her son Yoo Nam-young and daughters Baek Hwa and Hyun-sook. The funeral is being held at Yangju Funeral Culture Center in Gyeonggi, with the funeral service scheduled for 11 a.m. on the 12th.