Ssireum

Ssireum (also called Sirum) is a traditional Korean sport and martial art also called Korean sumo wrestling in the West. Ssireum symbolizes the national spirit of the Korean people. Ssireum is a contest of physical strength and technique in which two contestants compete in direct contact against each other. It is a form of wrestling found only in Korea. In the beginning, ssireum was practiced as combat for self-defense against attacks and a part of rituals originating from the ancient tribal states. With the advancement of civilization, the formation of specific rules governed the combat and allowed ssireum to develop into a major national sport for physical competition and entertainment.

Method of Play

Ssireum is played within a circular ring which is covered by deep sand. The two contestants begin play in a standing grappling position, each grabbing a belt (known as a satba) which is wrapped around his opponent's waist and thigh. Points are scored when one contestant or the other allows any part of his body above the knee to touch the ground, or when either contestant touches the ground outside the ring.

External links

Korea Ssireum Research Institute

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