Korean New Year, called Seollal (설날), is one of the most important holidays in Korea. It follows the lunar calendar, so the date changes every year but it usually celebrated in late January or early February.
Seollal is a time when families come together to honor their ancestors, enjoy delicious and traditional food, and also participate in cultural activities.
If you're curious about how Koreans celebrate the New Year, here are five key traditions you should know!
1. Sebae (세배)
Deep Bowing to Elders
Sebae is a respectful bow that younger family members perform for their elders. This gesture symbolizes gratitude and good wishes for the new year. In return, elders give Sebaetdon , or New Year’s money, along with words of wisdom and blessings. This custom strengthens family bonds and emphasizes respect for the elderly.
When I first learned about this, I thought it was similar to receiving blessings from elders in some cultures in India. Does your family have a tradition like this?
2. Charye (차례) –
Ancestral Memorial Rites
Charye is a special ceremony where families honor their ancestors by preparing a table filled with traditional dishes such as rice cakes, fish, and fruits. The food is arranged in a specific order, and family members perform a ritual bow to express their respect. People believe that showing respect to ancestors brings good fortune.
However, Some families still follow this tradition, while others celebrate in a modern way.
3. Tteokguk (떡국)
Eating Rice Cake Soup
A special dish called Tteokguk (떡국) is eaten on Seollal. This is a soup is made with sliced rice cakes, beef broth, and eggs.
Koreans say that after eating a bowl of tteokguk, you become one year older and brings good luck for the year ahead.
If you visit Korea during Seollal, don’t forget to try this delicious New Year’s dish!
I think this is similar to eating special food on birthdays or festivals in other cultures. What food do you eat for special occasions?
4. Playing Traditional Games
Seollal is not just about food and rituals—it’s also about having fun! Families play traditional games like:
- Yut Nori (윷놀이): A board game using four wooden sticks.
- Jegichagi (제기차기): A game in which players kick a paper jegi into the air and attempt to keep it aloft. A jegi is similar to a shuttlecock, and is made from paper wrapped around a small coin.
- Neolttwigi (널뛰기): A game where people jump on a wooden seesaw.
These games reminds me of the fun times I had with my family and friends on festivals in India. Do you also play games with your family during holidays?
5. Wearing Hanbok (한복) Traditional Korean Clothing
Many Koreans wear Hanbok (한복) during Seollal, especially when performing sebae or charye.
Are you unfamiliar with the word "Hanbok " ?
Let me introduce you a very Important part of Korean culture. Hanbok is a beautiful and colorful traditional outfit that reflects Korea’s cultural heritage. Today, some families opt for modernized hanbok styles, but the tradition of wearing it during New Year remains strong.
When I first saw hanbok, I thought it was so beautiful! It reminded me of some traditional Indian dresses, but I feel ours are more elaborate, with heavy jewelry and vibrant colors, while Korean hanbok has a more elegant and serene look.
Have you ever tried wearing traditional clothes from another culture?
Korean New Year is a time for family, respect, and celebration. Whether it’s eating tteokguk, bowing to elders, or playing games, these traditions make Seollal very special.
Korean New Year is not just a holiday—it’s a time to connect with family and make beautiful memories together!
Have you ever experienced a holiday like this? I would love to hear about your traditions!
