Jeju Dolhareubang

On Korea’s mainland, wooden carved statues called Jang-seung traditionally stood, while on the volcanic island of Jeju, stone carved statues called Dolhareubang stood. Historically, Dolhareubang were erected at the entrances of areas most characteristic of Jeju Island: Jeju-seong, Jeongeui-hyun-seong, and Daejeong-hyun-seong. They were meant to protect these public spaces and the surrounding villages like a guardian deity. Dolhareubang ward off danger and harm while showing the humorous, smiling appearance of a friendly neighborhood grandfather.

Wolf Trap, Virginia · United States