Behind the Mask: The aesthetics of Hahoe Mask

The Hahoe Mask is the oldest mask in South Korea. It is very oftenly featured in contents which introduces Korea abroad. The Hahoe Mask is named after, and originated from Hahoe folk Village in Pungcheon-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do. You may have seen an image of it somewhere.

In fact, the mask shown above is a type of Hahoe Mask called 'Yangban Mask'. "Yangban" refers to the ruling class during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, representing an upper-class. Hahoe Masks were originally popular among commoners and gained their fame through their criticism of the ruling class, particularly the "Yangban" class. 'Yangban Mask' became one of the most popular Hahoe Mask in Korea since there were various performances or shows using "Yangban Mask", typically to criticize them.

In the Korean version of Netflix's "Money Heist", the Salvador Dalí mask was replaced with the 'Yangban Mask' which depicts the popularity of the mask.

Netflix

Netflix

Originally, there were 13-14 different masks in the Hahoe Mask set, but only 11 have been passed down, with 3 lost. The preserved images of Hahoe Masks depict various expressions, especially in the male masks where the chin is movable.

So, what are Hahoe Masks used for? They are typically used in mask dances or plays. This is similar to what we commonly know as a masquerade. Actors wear masks representing characters, animals, or gods, and perform dramatic scenes accompanied by music, dance, and dialogue.

Typically, these performances strongly criticize the injustices of the ruling class, especially the Yangban class. As mentioned earlier, the Yangban Mask is the most famous because it's often used to criticize the Yangban in mask dances. The performances usually depict conflicts between the protagonist and antagonist. The antagonist, typically represented by the Yangban, appears as an abnormal figure with a screw loose, while the protagonist, though ordinary, is lively and energetic. The protagonist attacks the antagonist with free-spirited words and gestures, revealing the antagonist's ignorance, which evokes laughter and maximizes the satirical effect.

Alternatively, common themes include mocking corrupt monks or depicting conflicts between spouses due to infidelity. Depictions of the struggles of commoners are also common. The movie "The King and the Clown" was a significant hit in Korea and featured detailed scenes of mask dancing.

In the process of satirizing societal phenomena and characters, profanity, wordplay are freely used. This is because during the Joseon Dynasty, when mask dances were prevalent, it was a hierarchical society. During mask dances, commoners could freely mock and ridicule the Yangban or the rich. It could be seen as folk art reflecting the struggles of the common people. Mask dance was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2022.

The most famous place for Hahoe Masks and mask performances is Hahoe Village in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do. Hahoe Folk Village was also listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2010. When visiting Korea, it would be a great idea to visit Andong and experience the rich culture adorned with Hahoe Masks and other traditional Korean cultural elements.