The farmer's dance is one of the oldest forms for China's Korean ethnic group. In Yanji, Northeast China's Jilin Province, an heir to this time-honored tradition has been practicing the farmer's dance for decades. To pass it on to a younger generation, he even founded a dance troupe.

Korean farmer's dance

The farmer's dance has been in Han Xiangri's family for four generations. He has been practising the dance for more than 30 years or since he was 16.

Now, Han dedicates most of his time to a farmer's dance training base he established. Over 200 students are learning the dance here.

Han said, "There were only 38 students when the base was founded. But now we have more students. Most of them are teenagers, and the youngest is only 7 years old."

The Farmer's Dance was traditionally performed during planting, harvesting, and other agricultural events. Today, it is seen mostly at special festivals.

It is unique for its fast-paced music and the acrobatic moves. The most exciting part features dancers twirling long, colorful ribbons attached to their hats.

However, it's not easy to master. These twin brothers are from Heilongjiang Province's Jiamusi city.

"I've learned all the basic moves of the farmer's dance. But it takes time to perfect," said one of twin brothers.

Han's students have performed at galas across China. Some even performed in foreign countries.