[KS] Korean vocalizing

[Janelli, Roger L.]

Dear Dr. Kramer,

You might have hard pansori competition, as Liora Sarfati has suggested. 

Another possibility is that you heard a form of vocal exercise. Many (15-20) years ago, a large tract of land now taken up by  Korea University hospital was vacant mountain and had had become a favorite early morning exercise location for local residents and others.  I usually heard individuals shouting when I visited the place for  own summer morning exercise.

Roger L. Janelli
Professor Emeritus
Folklore and Ethnomusicology
East Asian Languages and Cultures 
Indiana University, Bloomington

-----Original Message-----
From: koreanstudies-bounces at koreaweb.ws [mailto:koreanstudies-bounces at koreaweb.ws] On Behalf Of Jonathan Kramer
Sent: Sunday, July 25, 2010 5:34 PM
To: koreanstudies at koreaweb.ws
Subject: [KS] Korean vocalizing

Dear Listserve members,  When I served a Fulbright in ROK in the mid-'90s, I noted a practice among (usually) older Koreans who, while hiking in the mountains, would loudly vocalize or shout.  It seemed to be some kind of artful or health-giving practice.  Does anyone have information about this?  Is there a name for it?  How prevalent is this practice?  Any information would be appreciated.  jk

Jonathan C. Kramer, Ph.D.
Dept. of Music
Box 7311, NCSU
Raleigh, NC  27695
919-515-7952
919-515-4204 (fax)