Mt Bukhansan: religion and recreation

Investigations and activities (SOSE/Geography Focus)

1. Follow the clues suggested in the six pieces of rollover text on the Mt Bukhansan: religion and recreation image to investigate shamanism and its practices. What is the role of shamanism in Korea today?
2. Mt Bukhansan is a spectacular mountain with exceptional natural beauty. In a small group, make a list of natural elements in your environment that you classify as having natural beauty and/or important qualities. Why do you think people find comfort in nature?
3. Investigate, compare and discuss how non-Indigenous and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples regard the relationship between themselves and nature.
4. Sacred places exist in most cultures. Brainstorm sacred places and events or cultural practices that you know about, and compare your list with other class members.
5. Visit the Angelfire website for an understanding of basic feng shui principles. Have a class debate about feng shui beliefs.
6. National parks are special places for Koreans to visit, especially since so many people live in densely populated cities. Visit the Korean National Park website to find out more about other Korean national parks.
7. Read the Wikipedia entry about the South Korean environment. Explore the internet for more information about this topic. Why is it necessary and important for governments to set aside large areas of land as national parks? What are the benefits? What problems can arise with turning areas into national parks?
8. Research another belief and way of life popular among Koreans, such as Christianity or Buddhism. What does the research tell you about Korean society?