Existing comment:
Jeju Dolhareubang:
While wooden carved statues called Jang-seung traditionally stood on the Korean mainland, stone carved statues called Dolhareubang stood on the volcanic island of Jeju.
Historically, Dolhareubang were erected at the entrances of the areas most characteristic of Jeju Island: Jeju-seong, Jeongeui-hyun-seong, and Daejeong-hyun-seong. They weremeant [sic] to protect these public spaces and the surrounding villages like a guardian deity.
The Dolhareubang ward off danger and harm, while exhibiting the humorous and smiling appearance of a friendly, neighborhood grandfather.
February 28, 2011
Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Republic of Korea |