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Korean literature

In Korean literature: Poetry
The kasa developed at about the same time as the sijo. In its formative stage, kasa borrowed the form of the Chinese tz’u (lyric poetry) or fu (rhymed prose). The kasa tends to be much longer than other forms of Korean poetry and is usually written…
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In Korean literature: Later Koryŏ: 12th century to 1392
Sijo and kasa, which would become the leading poetic genres in the Chosŏn period, also originated at this time. “Sŭngwŏn ka” by the monk Hyegŭn, transcribed in hyangch’al, explains Buddhist doctrine and confirms the emergence of the kasa form at the end of Koryŏ period. The sijo,…
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Korean music

In Korean music: Vocal music
…found in the genre called kasa accompanied by a flute and drum.
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pyŏlgok

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pyŏlgok

Korean verse form

Also known as: changga, yoyo

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Plural:: pyŏlgok

Also called:: changga

Related Topics:: Korean literature

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pyŏlgok, Korean poetic form that flourished during the Koryŏ period (935–1392). Of folk origin, the pyŏlgok was sung chiefly by women performers (kisaeng) and was intended for performance on festive occasions. The theme of most of these anonymous poems is love, and its joys and torments are expressed in frank and powerful language. The pyŏlgok is characterized by the presence of a refrain either in the middle or at the end of each stanza. The refrain not only establishes a mood or tone that carries the melody and spirit of the poem but also serves to link the discrete parts and contents of the poem. The pyŏlgok entitled “Tongdong” (“Ode on the Seasons”) and “Isanggok” (“Winter Night”) are among the most moving love lyrics in the Korean language.

kasa

Learn about this topic in these articles:

Korean literature

Korean music

pyŏlgok