#United States #New York #Korean Culture #KCCNY #GUT

Unveiling the Spirit of Korea: GUT Performance at KCCNY

The Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY), affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea, is thrilled to announce its upcoming event, GUT (굿) – a significant Korean traditional spiritual rite scheduled for November 21 and 22, 2025. This performance will take place at 7:30 PM in KCCNY's theater and marks the beginning of a new artistic series called KCCNY Curates.

GUT is a captivating demonstration of Korea's rich cultural heritage and shamanistic traditions, intertwining dance, music, and spiritual healing. It is recognized as one of Korea's Intangible Cultural Heritages, providing an intimate look into the country's ancient rituals designed for gratitude, harmony, and blessings.

A Tribute to New York
This performance stands as a tribute to the warmth and support shown by the New York community over the past year since KCCNY's new location opened. It is much more than a performance; it is a celebration of shared cultural experiences and community bonding, symbolizing hope for peace and unity in the years to come.

Leadership of Master Park Jeongwook
Under the expert guidance of Master Park Jeongwook, a distinguished figure in the realm of contemporary Cheolmuri-GUT, audiences can expect a highly authentic and resonant experience. Park is celebrated not only for his skills and dedication to the preservation of Korean culture, but he deeply connects the past and future of Korean spiritual practices.

As articulated by the renowned artist Nam June Paik, "Our soul is Gut", reflecting the belief that this performance transcends typical art forms, serving as a living expression where music, dance, and spirit intersect, facilitating collective healing and connection.

Performance Rituals

The GUT performance will include eight unique rituals that honor various deities and ancestral spirits, each designed to represent different aspects of human experience and spiritual connection. Here's a glimpse of what attendees can look forward to:

1. Ilwol Seongshin-maji - A ritual honoring the sun and moon deities, invoking peace for humanity.
2. Sangsan-maji - A tribute to ancestral spirits and guardian deities for family safety and national harmony.
3. Chilseong Jaeseok-geori - A rite calling upon the Northern Dipper constellation for blessings of longevity and prosperity.
4. Sodaegam-nori - A humorous celebration of Sodaegam, the vegetarian spirit who wishes for earthly success.
5. Jangsu-geori - A dynamic tribute to a valiant general spirit to celebrate victories and achievements.
6. Bisoo, Changgeom, Jakdu-geori - A solemn invocation to dispel misfortunes and restore balance.
7. Josang-geori - A deeply reverent ceremony honoring ancestors for eternal peace and the health of descendants.
8. Dwit-geori - The closing rite to safely guide wandering spirits, bringing harmony to the event.

Note: The program may be subject to change.

About KCCNY

Since its inception in 1979, the KCCNY has dedicated itself to the promotion and cultural exchange of Korean arts within New York City. With a new headquarters located at 122 E 32nd Street, this center serves as a cultural hub near Manhattan's Koreatown, hosting diverse programs from exhibitions to educational initiatives.

The KCCNY Curates series aims to elevate Korean performing arts by showcasing innovative works that blend artistic excellence and cultural narrative. As a gateway for New Yorkers to engage with the dynamic essence of Korea's artistic scene, KCCNY aspires to become a must-visit destination for high-caliber performances.

Participation Information

Admission to the GUT performance is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required. We invite everyone to join in this celebration of shared cultural heritage and unity as we engage in gratitude and mutual understanding.

For more details, please visit Korean Cultural Center New York or follow them on Instagram @kccny.