What is a Korean mask that has a religious meaning?

A prominent Korean mask type known for its significant religious meaning is the **Hahoetal** mask.

## Hahoetal Masks: Tools for Shamanistic Rituals

Hahoetal masks are traditional Korean masks originating from the Hahoe village in Andong, South Korea. While often associated with the Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori, a traditional dramatic performance, these masks hold a deep-rooted religious significance.

Based on the provided information:

*   **Hahoetal masks** hold significant importance in shamanistic rituals.
*   They serve as tools for **communication with spirits and ancestors**.

In the context of shamanistic practices, masks like the Hahoetal are not merely props; they are believed to embody or connect with supernatural entities. Their use in rituals facilitates interaction between the human realm and the spirit world, playing a crucial role in seeking blessings, warding off evil spirits, or conducting ancestral rites. This functional aspect in spiritual communication is what gives Hahoetal masks their distinct religious meaning.

## Significance in Rituals

The religious significance of Hahoetal masks is highlighted by their specific uses in shamanistic ceremonies:

*   **Facilitating Communication:** They bridge the gap between the living and the spiritual world.
*   **Embodying Spirits:** The mask can represent deities, spirits, or ancestors, allowing participants to interact with these entities.
*   **Performing Rites:** They are integral to various rituals aimed at ensuring community well-being, good harvests, or protection.

This makes Hahoetal masks a key example of how Korean traditional arts intertwine with religious beliefs and practices, particularly in shamanism.