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Start for freeThe Divine Descent of Hwanung
Long ago, in the realms of the divine, there existed a god named Hwanin. His son, Hwanung, harbored a deep fascination with the human world. Day after day, Hwanung observed humanity from afar, yearning to descend and nurture the people with his guidance and wisdom.
Hwanin's Blessing
Upon learning of his son's desires, Hwanin chose to grant Hwanung's wish. He sent his son to Mount Taebaek, believing that Hwanung's presence there would greatly benefit humankind. With the blessings of his father, Hwanung made his way to the earthly realm, accompanied by the god of wind, the god of rain, and the god of cloud – a formidable entourage befitting a celestial being.
Hwanung's Teachings
With the support of these elemental deities, Hwanung began his earthly mission. He introduced the people to farming techniques, fostering harmony among them, and even healing their ailments. His profound knowledge and compassion uplifted the human world, laying the foundations for a thriving society.
The Transformation Quest
Amidst his benevolent endeavors, Hwanung encountered a bear and a tiger. These creatures, captivated by the notion of becoming human, pleaded with Hwanung for his assistance. Compassionately, Hwanung presented them with a challenge: if they could endure a hundred days confined in a cave, subsisting solely on mugwort and garlic, they would be granted human forms.
The two animals eagerly accepted the challenge, embarking on their transformative journey. However, as days passed, the tiger grew restless. Frustrated by the cave's pungent odors and the monotony of their diet, the tiger abandoned the quest, lured by the tantalizing promise of outside pleasures.
The bear, despite the hardships, remained resolute. She continued to consume the mugwort and garlic, her prayers fervent and unwavering. Her perseverance was eventually rewarded when she awoke to discover she had transformed into a beautiful woman.
The Birth of Tangun
Hwanung, moved by the bear's dedication, took her as his wife, and she was named Ungnyeo. Together, they had a son who embodied the virtues of wisdom, bravery, and kindness. Named Tangun, he was revered by all, following in the footsteps of his father's legacy.
Tangun grew to be a leader of great renown, founding the kingdom of Gojoseon. He ruled this nascent country with peace and justice for two millennia. Legend says that after his reign, Tangun ascended to the mountains, where he transformed into a guardian spirit, watching over the land he once nurtured.
Legacy of Tangun
The myth of Tangun Yagi forms a crucial part of Korea's cultural and historical identity. It is a narrative that intertwines the divine with the human, illustrating the profound impact of mythological figures on the development of civilizations. The story of Tangun and his divine lineage echoes through the ages, symbolizing the essence of Korean spirit and the nation's enduring heritage.
Discover the full narrative of Tangun, Korea's mythical progenitor, and delve into the rich tapestry of a legend that has shaped a nation. Watch the original video for a more immersive experience into this captivating tale: The Myth of Tangun.
