Jangseung

A jangseung is a traditional Korean totem pole or post which is often set up at a village entrance as a guardian of the village. It is usually made of wood, and is painted black and has a face carved into it with two bulging eyes and a wide open mouth. They were placed in pairs and can be found at village entrances and crossroads all over Korea. People believe that the jangseung will protect their village from any bad energy and make sure only good energy is able to pass through.