Dolharbangs

Not much is known for certain about Dolharbangs, or their role and purpose in society. From what I’ve read, their purpose could have been three-fold, or any one of these three aspects: a location marker (they originally stood at the gates of the three counties during the Joseon dynasty, and were also markers at government buildings), a guardian (defending against warring invaders, disease, or any other evil) and/or a ceremonial reminder (of a deity or an ancestor). I was fascinated by these stone figures, and frustrated by the lack of information I was able to find. But, perhaps this also contributes to their haunting and mysterious qualities…