Modern Shamanistic Practices among Young Koreans Amidst Societal Uncertainties

​I will explore the resurgence of shamanistic practice among young Koreans, analyzing its psychological, cultural, and religious implications in modern Korean society. For young people seeking reassurance about their futures, shamanistic practices can serve as tools for alleviating societal anxiety and coping with life’s uncertainties. These practices provide a way to address personal concerns, functioning as a form of psychological support. Moreover, with the secularization of Korean shamanism, these practices have become increasingly accessible. This growing interest in shamanism may indicate that institutional religions, including Christianity, have failed to fully address the spiritual, existential, and emotional needs of young people. Additionally, this phenomenon aligns with the broader global trend of spiritual-but-not-religious (SBNR) practices. I will critically examine how shamanism can offer meaningful alternatives by creating spaces for emotional reassurance and self-exploration—dimensions that institutional religions may struggle to provide—in ways that feel more personally relevant, transformative, and liberating.