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How did shamans act as psychopomps for the dead?

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Mudang in South Korea — Shamanism Korean shamans, or *mudang*, performing a ritual dance in South Korea.

In the context of shamanism, a psychopomp acts as a guide who accompanies the souls of the deceased to their final destination in the afterlife.12

Shamans perform this role through ritualistic journeys, often entering a trance state induced by frenetic dancing, drumming, or the use of string instruments. During these ceremonies, the shaman narrates the details of the soul's journey to the audience, effectively guiding the spirit to the underworld. In some cultures, such as the Nanai of northeastern Asia, the shaman is tasked with catching the soul of the deceased as it floats in the universe to escort it to the Yonder World. In other traditions, such as among the Tungus, the shaman is specifically called upon to act as a psychopomp if the soul of the deceased haunts its former residence.12

To facilitate these rituals, shamans may use specialized paraphernalia, such as a metal mirror, which is believed to allow them to see the souls of the dead.1