The Intergovernmental Committee of the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity met at its 4th session held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from 28 September to 2 October 2009 and inscribed on the Representative List 76 elements of the intangible cultural heritage from 27 countries.

Among them are five nominations submitted by the Republic of Korea:

Jeju Rites for Goddess of Wind (Jeju chilmeoridang yeongdeung gut);

Dance of Cheoyong (Cheoyongmu);

Rites of Vulture Peak (Yeongsanjae);

Namsadang Vagabond Clowns’ Play (Namsadang nori);

Women’s Circle Dance (Ganggang sullae).

Since the Convention of the Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage was adopted in 2003, it was the first inscriptions on the Representative List which was established to ensure better visibility of the intangible cultural heritage. The List now numbers a total of 166 elements including the 90 items previously proclaimed “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” and now incorporated in the List.