Jegichagi
Jegichagi is a traditional Korean game where players keep a weighted shuttlecock called a jegi in the air using their feet. It tests agility, balance, and rhythm through diverse kicking styles in solo or group play.
AT A GLANCE
- ERA
- Traditional
- ORIGIN
- Korea
- PLAYERS
- 1 or more
- EQUIPMENT
- Jegi shuttlecock
- PLAYING AREA
- Flat open ground
- DURATION
- Varies
- GOVERNING BODY
- None
- OLYMPIC
- No
Common kicking styles
| Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Jip-chagi | Kicking with the inner foot while keeping the leg raised |
| Eungeong-chagi | Alternating inner-foot kicks between left and right feet |
| Hullyeong-chagi | Kicking with the outer side of the foot |
| 뒷발차기 (Dwitbal-chagi) | Kicking the jegi from behind the body using the heel |
| Period | Event |
|---|---|
| c. 50 BC | Early roots derive from Chinese cuju, adopted in Korea as chuk-gu |
| Joseon Dynasty | Evolution into a folk game using coin-and-paper shuttlecocks |
| 20th Century | Modern vinyl and plastic jegi enter commercial production |
How a game works
Players kick a jegi—a small object made from a coin wrapped in paper or cloth—into the air repeatedly without letting it touch the ground. It can be played solo to set a personal record, in turns against opponents, or in cooperative team circles.
Scoring in one line
The player or team with the highest count of continuous successful kicks wins the round.
Where it came from
Jegichagi originated from cuju, an ancient Chinese military training sport. During Korea's Three Kingdoms period, the ball game transformed into a kickabout exercise called chuk-gu, eventually shifting to lightweight shuttlecocks accessible to common folk.
Jegichagi today
The game is a widely recognized folk tradition in South Korea, frequently played during major holidays like Seollal (Lunar New Year). It is commonly taught in primary schools to promote physical coordination and cultural preservation.
Run a Jegichagi tournament
Brackets, fixtures and standings in your browser — Varies.
FAQ
What is a jegi made of?
A traditional jegi consists of a coin wrapped in thin Korean paper or cloth, with the trailing ends shredded into tassels. Modern versions often use plastic caps and vinyl fringe.
How is Jegichagi different from hacky sack?
While both involve foot control, a jegi has light paper or plastic tassels that create air resistance, causing it to drop straight down with distinct aerial stability unlike a flexible cloth beanbag.
Is Jegichagi an Olympic sport?
No, Jegichagi is an informal folk game and is not part of the Olympic Games.