Archery is the age-old practice of shooting arrows from a bow. It has traditionally been used in hunting or warfare and is popularly depicted in dramatisations of historical or mythological events.

If you are a fan of Korean period dramas, you will surely have heard of the current blockbuster Jumong, which tells of the conflict between the ancient Korean kingdom of Gojoseon and Han Chinese forces.

In the show, hero-in-the-making Prince Ju Mong (Song Il Gook of Emperor of the Sea) finds himself trapped in coming-of-age circumstances: He is regarded as a rival by his brother Dae So (Kim Seung Soo – A Million Roses) and torn between charming young trader So Seo No (Han Hye Jin – Be Strong, Geum Soon!) and sweet servant Bu Yeong (Im So Young).

Its engaging plot aside, the series has surely inspired viewers with its display of kuk kung (where an archer aims for the bull’s eye). Did you know that Korea is one of the leading Olympic powers in men's and women's archery, and that the country has a long tradition of archery that dates back to 37 BC? That could be the reason for the nation’s obsession with this sport.

No sparring, drills or exercises are involved in kuk kung, and mastering it can take a lifetime. Every new arrow used marks a new beginning, and a clean slate. With a philosophy that emphasises focusing on the present, the art commands much interest among amateurs and the experienced, both young and old.

Archery has evolved in Korea and elsewhere as a leisure pursuit and precision sport. Its most popular form today is target archery, or competitive archery, which involves accurately shooting at a target at set distances. This increasingly accessible activity is becoming a hit with many a toxophilite (lover of archery), all over the world.

If you wish to learn more about archery, courses are available. But if you prefer to be a couch potato and “armchair archer” instead, there are always VCDs/DVDs like Jumong to fall back on. Check it out at Poh Kim Video.