P’UNSU: KOREAN ART OF HARMONIOUS LIVING

This article examines the phenomenon of the p’unsu, which has little studied in domestic science. Koreans used this philosophical theory and practice from antiquity when they defi ned auspicious places for settlements and burials of relatives. Based on medieval and modern literature sources the author analyzes the link of p’unsu with Chinese fengshui, explores the main theoretical postulates of this theory and its practical application for the sake of gaining a healthy and happy life. P’unsu played an important role in the political life of the medieval Korea, so the article reveals its social function. The conclusion is that this ancient proto-science helped the Koreans to live in harmony with nature, it has become an important part of Korean worldview and is demanding in modern Korea. To understand Korean culture in all its diversity, it is necessary to consider a role p’unsu.