If you happen to be in South Korea during the first or second month of the year, you might notice the bustling cities suddenly becoming quiet, while train stations are packed with people carrying beautifully wrapped gift sets.
Welcome to Seollal (์ค๋ )—Korea’s most celebrated traditional holiday!
While many parts of the world celebrate New Year’s on January 1st, Koreans place deep cultural importance on the Lunar New Year. It’s a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and, of course, eating incredible food. Here is your ultimate guide to understanding Seollal.
1. The Spirit of Seollal: Family First
Seollal is more than just a day off; it is a time for Hyo (ํจ), or filial piety. Thousands of people travel across the country to their hometowns (a phenomenon called the "Great Migration") to spend time with their parents and extended relatives.
2. Traditional Rituals and Customs
Sebae (์ธ๋ฐฐ): This is the highlight for the younger generation. Children perform a deep formal bow to their elders while saying "Saehae bok mani badeuseyo" (May you receive lots of luck in the New Year).
Sebaetdon (์ธ๋ฑ๋): After the bow, elders give "New Year’s money" to the children along with words of wisdom and blessings (Deokdam).
Seol-bim (์ค๋น): Many Koreans wear Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) on this day. The vibrant colors represent a fresh start and a bright future.
3. The "Age-Defining" Dish: Tteokguk (๋ก๊ตญ)
You haven't officially turned a year older in Korea until you've finished a bowl of Tteokguk (Sliced Rice Cake Soup).
The Meaning: The white color of the rice cakes symbolizes purity, while the thin, round shape resembles old Korean coins, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
The Legend: Since Koreans traditionally count their age by the New Year rather than their birthday, eating a bowl of Tteokguk is metaphorically "consuming" another year of life!
4. Let the Games Begin: Yutnori (์ท๋์ด)
After the feast, families gather to play Yutnori. It’s a board game played by tossing four wooden sticks into the air. It’s highly competitive, easy to learn, and usually involves a lot of cheering and laughter.
๐ก Pro-Tips for Expats and Travelers
Empty Seoul: If you stay in Seoul, you’ll find the streets unusually empty and peaceful. It’s the perfect time to visit the Han River or take photos.
Palace Visits: Major palaces like Gyeongbokgung are usually open to the public during Seollal, often offering free admission and hosting traditional cultural performances.
Greeting: Don't be shy! If you meet a Korean friend, say: "Sae-hae-bok-ma-ni-ba-deu-se-yo!"
Seollal is a beautiful reminder of the importance of roots and the joy of new beginnings. Whether you're eating tteokguk with a host family or exploring a quiet Seoul, we wish you a year filled with health and happiness!
Happy Lunar New Year! ๐ฎ
