Kkwaenggwari is the small Korean gong used in traditional percussion ensembles and performances that may appear during Chuseok celebrations. It is a handheld metal instrument with a bright, penetrating sound.
The instrument is especially important in pungmul and samul nori traditions. In ensemble playing, its sharp tones can signal changes, accents, and rhythmic direction. Its sound contrasts with the deeper resonance of the buk drum and the more varied tones of the janggu hourglass drum.
Kkwaenggwari is sometimes confused with the larger jing gong. Both are Korean gongs, but the kkwaenggwari is smaller and generally has a more cutting tone. Chuseok cultural events often present these instruments in performances rather than as part of the household ancestor rite itself.