In the distant past, villagers gathered to celebrate plantings and harvests. Such festivities were probably the origin of folk songs and dances that are still widely enjoyed. Jeongak, performed at court, tended to be slow, solemn, and elaborately melodic. Sogak drew from a variety of influences, including Buddhist and shamanistic rituals. The songs are often dramatic, depicting love stories and folk tales.
Performances are vibrant, full of strong emotion.
Western music was introduced at the end of the 19th century and gained rapid acceptance. There are a number of Korean musicians performing and competing internationally today. Traditional Korean dance may be divided into court dance, folk dance, ritual dance, and the dance of professional entertainers. Court dances are slow, stately, and elegant, the movements balanced and restrained. Folk dance includes farmers dances, mask dance-dramas, and various group dances meant to accompany work.