Shamanism and Initiation Ceremonies

In South Korea, where Buddhism and Christianity are prevalent, shamanism remains a significant belief system. To become a shaman, one must undergo the Narim Cot initiation. Gian, tormented by spirits since childhood, is called to shamanism through a mystical illness. Guided by Kim Kuma, a renowned shaman, Gian prepares for her initiation. The ceremony involves ecstatic trances and spirit possession, culminating in a knife-riding ritual. Gian successfully completes the test, marking the start of her journey as a shaman under Kim Kuma's guidance.

What are the dominant religions in South Korea alongside shamanism?

• Hinduism and Islam

• Buddhism and Christianity

• Judaism and Sikhism

• Taoism and Confucianism

What is the mystical illness that can lead someone to become a shaman?

• Reiki

• Karma

• Shinbyung

• Narim Cot

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

• Gian's sister

• A famous Korean singer

• The leader of Northern style ecstatic Shamanism

• A Buddhist monk

What is the purpose of the Narim Cot initiation ceremony?

• To honor ancestors

• To test if a spirit will possess the initiate

• To celebrate a festival

• To perform a traditional dance

What happens during the ecstatic trance in the initiation ceremony?

• The shaman writes sacred texts

• The shaman sings traditional songs

• The shaman's mind becomes possessed by spirits

• The shaman meditates silently

What is the significance of the knife-riding general in the ceremony?

• A historical figure

• A guardian spirit

• A symbol of peace

• A representation of fear

What does Gian do to prove her readiness during the final test?

• Performs a solo dance

• Sings a traditional song

• Dances on knives without bleeding

• Recites a sacred text

What does Gian feel after passing the final test?

• Fearful and anxious

• Indifferent and unchanged

• Like she has the whole world in her hands

• Confused and lost

What is the next step for Gian after the initiation ceremony?

• She starts her own shamanic practice

• She undergoes years of training under Kim Kuma

• She becomes a full-fledged shaman immediately

• She leaves the shamanic path

What is the ultimate goal for Gian in her journey as a shaman?

• To travel the world

• To become a religious leader

• To gain wealth and power

• To find greater peace and happiness