Special Ways to Celebrate New Year's in Korea

Hello. When the new year begins, people all over the world celebrate it in different ways, don't they? In Korea, traditional customs and modern trends blend together, resulting in a truly unique New Year's celebration culture. In this article, I will introduce Korea's special New Year's celebration methods. Let's experience the charm of Korea together!

Traditional New Year Customs

1. The Difference Between Seollal (Lunar New Year) and the Gregorian New Year

In Korea, it could be said that the New Year is celebrated twice. Seollal (Seol), the Lunar New Year, is a very important day when family members gather to perform traditional ceremonies and celebrate the holiday. On the other hand, January 1st of the Gregorian calendar also celebrates the New Year, and many people regard this day as a new beginning.

2. Sebae

In Korea, on New Year's morning, families gather and perform Sebae for the elders. Sebae is a tradition of bowing respectfully and wishing for health and happiness in the new year. After receiving Sebae, the elders give words of wisdom and often give "Sebaetdon" (New Year's money). Children are really happy when they receive Sebaetdon!

3. Tteokguk

On the first day of the New Year, we always eat Tteokguk. This soup, made with thinly sliced rice cakes and meat, is a symbolic food that represents gaining another year. A bowl of Tteokguk gives you the feeling of starting the year fresh and anew.

Modern New Year's Celebration Methods

1. Visiting Sunrise Spots

In Korea, many people go to see the sunrise on the first day of the New Year. Popular sunrise spots such as Jeongdongjin, Pohang Homigot, and Namsan Mountain in Seoul are always popular. Wishing upon the rising sun gives you a special feeling.

2. Wishing for the New Year

Many people also visit temples on the first day of the New Year to make wishes. Making a wish at famous temples like Haeinsa and Bulguksa makes you feel calm and hopeful for a good year.

3. Countdown Events

In big cities, New Year's countdown festivals are held. In Seoul's Bosingak Belfry, a traditional bell-ringing ceremony takes place, and the countdown event held there is a truly unique Korean New Year's celebration.

Unique New Year Culture

1. The First Dream of the New Year

In Korea, it is believed that the dream you have on the first night of the New Year determines your fortune for the year. Dreaming of a pig or a dragon is said to bring good fortune, so many people are interested in their first dream.

2. Korean New Year's Resolutions

Koreans also make various resolutions when the New Year comes. Setting goals, such as taking care of their health or pursuing self-development, seems to be something that people all over the world can relate to.

Interesting Stories Related to the New Year

1. Traditional Korean Folktales

Among Korean folktales related to the New Year, the story of "The Brother and Sister Who Became the Sun and Moon" is truly interesting. It's a story that makes you realize the importance of family, so it's nice to hear it during the New Year.

2. Traditional Games

During the New Year, families gather and enjoy traditional games. Yut Nori is simple, but it's a really fun game to play together, laughing and talking. And kite flying is a very symbolic game where you send your New Year's wishes up into the sky.

Conclusion

Korea's New Year's celebration culture is truly unique and interesting, blending tradition and modernity. How do you celebrate the New Year in your country? Please tell us about your New Year's celebrations in the comments! Happy New Year to all! 😊

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