What visitor to Jeju hasn’t marvelled at the mysteries and origins of Dolhareubang with their big eyes, round bellies, and secretive grins? In my first few weeks walking around the Island, I never felt like I was truly alone – volcanic rock “Grandfather Stones” peeked out of the grass on the side of roads and stood watch at the foot of bridges and doorways.
People believe that Dolhareubang may be gatekeepers protecting Jeju inhabitants from disease, fertility symbols or even tools of propaganda that represented the political power of shamans …