Twelve chaes of peasant music is a system of beats played with such percussion instruments as cymbals, gongs, hourglass drums and other drums.

   Chae means beat.

   It is divided into different forms according to the number of striking a gong. One strike is called chae 1, two strikes chae 2, and three strikes chae 3.

   Chaes 1-7, with simple and clear rhythmic structures, were used in playing music for dance, and chaes 8-12, the incorporation of chaes 1, 2 and 3, were used mainly in displaying the performing skills.

   They express strong national flavour as they are based on music beats peculiar to the Korean nation.

   They are played in the dancing parties of agricultural workers across the country.