In the old days, the music and dance were performed for days and nights to repel all the evil spirits or to celebrate planting of crops and harvesting. In fact, the music and dance performed by shamans are believed to be the origin of Poongmul-Nori. Chronologically, it dates back to about two thousand years.

The authentic identity of Poongmul-Nori, must be understood in the context of Korea as a traditionally agricultural society. When farming season arrived, farmers needed inexhaustible energy and strength for the strenuous work. Spiritual uplifting was absolutely necessary for them which will strengthen unity and increase efficiency of work on the fields. Recently, Poongmul has evolved to become part of national holiday celebrations and rituals.

Naturally, Poongmul-Nori was performed regularly in many parts of Korea to revitalize fatigued souls. On the Full Moon's Day (Koeran Thanksgiving Day) in particular, the entire country celebrated the good harvest and expressed gratitude to their ancestors with exuberant music and dance as well as various ritulas, namely Poongmul-Nori.

A written history has not been found when and how it started. We can only assume that it must have started as early as when the agricultural Korean society has begun. During the era of Three Kingdons, Pa-Jong in May and Nong-Gong-Pil in October were held celebrating and praying to the heaven for a good year's harvest. It lasted days and nights attracting various people in all ages around the town dancing and drinking. It is believed that Poongmul must have been a part of the celebration.

In the tradition of Poongmul-Nori, every performer is a dancer, and a musician.