Korean Shamanism and the Narim Cot Initiation

In South Korea, where Buddhism and Christianity are prevalent, many still practice shamanism. To become a shaman, one must undergo the Narim Cot initiation. Gian, tormented by spirits since childhood, was called to shamanism through a mystical illness. Guided by Kim Kuma, a leader in ecstatic shamanism, Gian prepared for her initiation. The ceremony involved entering a trance and spirit possession. Kim Kuma performed a knife riding ritual, and Gian successfully completed her test, marking the start of her journey as a shaman.

What are the dominant religions in South Korea alongside shamanism?

• Taoism and Confucianism

• Buddhism and Christianity

• Judaism and Sikhism

• Hinduism and Islam

What is the initiation rite called that one must pass to become a Korean shaman?

• Narim Cot

• Shinbyung

• Hanbok

• Goryeo

What mystical illness is associated with receiving a calling to become a shaman?

• Narim Cot

• Shinbyung

• Hanbok

• Hallyu

Who did Gian dream of that led her to pursue becoming a shaman?

• A Buddhist monk

• A Christian priest

• A shaman

• A Confucian scholar

Who is Kim Kuma in the context of Gian's journey?

• A Christian priest

• A Confucian scholar

• A Buddhist monk

• A leader in Northern style ecstatic shamanism

What is the purpose of the Narim Cot initiation ceremony?

• To summon spirits and undergo possession

• To meditate in silence

• To celebrate a festival

• To perform a traditional dance

During the Narim Cot, what state does Gian enter to communicate with spirits?

• Yoga

• Deep meditation

• Ecstatic trance

• Silent prayer

What does Kim Kuma do to demonstrate the presence of her guardian spirit?

• Performs a ritual dance

• Lights a candle

• Licks and dances on knives

• Sings a song

What is the significance of Gian's feet not bleeding during the knife dance?

• It means she needs more training

• It indicates her success in the test

• It shows she is not ready

• It suggests she is not a true shaman

What is Gian's next step after passing the Narim Cot initiation?

• Travel abroad for further studies

• Start her own shamanic practice immediately

• Undergo years of training under Kim Kuma

• Return to her normal life