The 57th Tamna Culture Festival is underway here in Jeju City. Now on Jeju A to Z, our regular contributor Todd Thacker will take a closer look at the background and history of Jeju’s progenitor, the Tamna Kingdom.

Though it might sound like ancient history, we are living on an island with very real, lived elements of the ancient culture of the Tamna Kingdom.

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Tamna mythical founders: Go, Bu, Yang

Its founding myth, for example, refers to three “divine mortals” named Go, Bu, and Yang, islander surnames that are commonly found today. These founders were said to come into existence from three mysterious holes at Samseonghyeol, a site in Jeju City you can see with your own eyes.

While much of the early history of the island is lost, recent archeological discoveries have made significant strides detailing the distinct life, culture, and politics of Tamna. They have found evidence of large settlements beginning from the first or second century BCE.

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Geographic location key to development, prosperity

This was a period of increased maritime trade with mainland Korea, China and Japan. The island’s favorable geographic location proved to be essential to its prosperity and cultural development. Islanders earned a living on the ocean ? fishing and trading. They also raised livestock, hunted, and grew hearty crops using dryland farming.

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Made a county of Goryeo Kingdom in 1105

In the year 1105, Tamna became a county of the Goryeo Kingdom (918-1392), ceasing to be an independent state. According to historical records, it was first referred to as “Jeju” in 1211, though it was still called Tamna by many. Only in 1374 did Tamna completely disappear from official government records.

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Todd Thacker

Today the word Tamna still evokes the island’s rich tapestry of culture and history. Festivals such as the Tamna Culture Festival ? which is now in its 57th year ? are a good indication that this heritage is in no immediate danger of being lost.

One final note: If you'd like to learn more about this pivotal time in the island's history, there is a comprehensive and free special exhibition about Tamna at Jeju National Museum through Nov. 4.

Todd Thacker KCTV