Gochang County's "Nongak Lead Drummer Lee Myunghoon" Recognized as Jeonbuk Intangible Cultural Heritage Holder

Lee Myunghoon, the lead drummer of Gochang Nongak in Jeonbuk and current advisor of the Gochang Nongak Preservation Society, has been recognized as a holder of intangible cultural heritage by Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province.

Lee Myunghoon, the lead drummer of Jeonbuk Gochang Nongak and currently an advisor to the Gochang Nongak Preservation Society, has been recognized as a holder of intangible cultural heritage by Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province. Provided by Gochang County

According to the county on December 29, Advisor Lee has dedicated himself to learning, practicing, and passing down Gochang Nongak since the early 1990s. He has operated the Gochang Nongak Training Center, a specialized educational institution for Gochang Nongak, focusing on nurturing future generations and providing systematic training. He currently serves as an advisor to the Gochang Nongak Preservation Society.

This recognition is considered a meaningful achievement, as it not only honors individual accomplishment but also officially acknowledges the historical value and cultural significance of Gochang Nongak.

Having safeguarded the tradition for 35 out of Gochang Nongak's 40-year history, Lee recently played a major role in elevating its status by serving as the chair of the committee for the 40th anniversary commemorative project.

In particular, since 1998, Advisor Lee devoted a decade to documenting and organizing Gochang Nongak, publishing a total of three books, including 'Gochang Nongak' and 'Village Gut of Gochang.' Through these efforts, he has been recognized for leaving a systematic record and establishing an academic foundation for Gochang Nongak.

As a result of such dedicated efforts, Gochang Nongak has become a leading model for the transmission of Nongak, with thousands of people participating in training programs each year. Performances attract such high interest that tickets sell out within minutes of going on sale online.

Furthermore, for university pungmul club students across the country, training in Gochang Nongak is considered an essential course. The Gochang Nongak Training Center actively operates more than 20 educational programs and holds 60 to 80 performances annually.

The Gochang County Governor stated, "With Advisor Lee Myunghoon being recognized as the holder of 'Gochang Nongak Lead Drummer,' Gochang Nongak is expected to further establish itself as a shining spirit of Honam and enhance the region's cultural pride. We will continue to provide unwavering support for the promotion and transmission of Gochang Nongak."

This recognition as a holder is expected to serve as an important milestone, ensuring that Gochang Nongak continues to be a vital intangible heritage representing the essence of traditional Korean culture.