Mandeokje

Mandeokje is a Confucian ritual performed annually since 1980 at the tomb of Kim Man-deok, located within Mochungsa Shrine at Sarabong in Geonip-dong, Jeju-si. It is held to honor the noble spirit of Kim Man-deok, a righteous figure who relieved the suffering of Jeju residents during the famine of the Joseon Dynasty. The ceremony takes place on the opening day of the Tamra Cultural Festival or on a weekend close to the anniversary of Kim Man-deok's passing. Unlike most traditional Korean rituals, Mandeokje is uniquely characterized by the selection of virtuous women to serve as ritual officiants. Alongside the ceremony, the Kim Man-deok Award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated dedicated devotion to practicing neighborly love and sharing.