Education and Literacy Transmission of Chinese Pansori in Chaoxian Ethnic Group

Abstract

Pansori, a traditional Korean musical storytelling art form, has been a vital cultural expression of the Chaoxian ethnic group in China, particularly in Yanji City. This study explores the educational and literacy practices involved in transmitting Pansori within this community, focusing on how these practices influence the younger generation’s engagement with their cultural heritage. The research aims to understand the role of musical and linguistic literacy in preserving Pansori and ensuring its continued relevance in a rapidly modernizing society. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with three groups of eight informants: Two key informants, three casual informants, and three general informants, including provincial-level intangible cultural heritage transmitters, community members, and young learners, supplemented by participant observations and document analysis. Thematic analysis revealed that while traditional literacy practices effectively sustain Pansori, challenges remain in engaging youth who are increasingly influenced by global cultural trends. The study suggests the integration of digital media and innovative educational strategies to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, ensuring Pansori’s vibrant future. This research contributes to the broader discourse on cultural transmission and the preservation of intangible heritage within minority communities.