The Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, celebrates the beginning of the solar Chinese calendar. Celebrations last for 15 days annually, with the first day depending on the sighting of the new moon. Each year, there is an animal associated with the new year; these are called the Chinese zodiac signs and for 2025, it is a Year of the Snake (learn more about what this means here). Each country that celebrates has its own traditions. Blue Yonder associate Kate Cho shares how the holiday is celebrated in South Korea.

Korean New Year, known as Seollal (설날), is one of the most significant holidays in South Korea. It marks the first day of the lunar calendar and is celebrated with various customs that have been passed down for generations. This holiday is not just about welcoming a new year but also about paying respect to ancestors and spending time with family.

Eating Tteokguk (떡국)

One of the most iconic traditions of Seollal is eating tteokguk, a hearty and delicious soup made with thinly sliced rice cakes. This dish holds a special significance during the New Year. According to Korean tradition, eating a bowl of tteokguk symbolizes growing a year older. It is believed that one cannot officially age until they have had their bowl of this soup.

Tteokguk is often prepared with beef broth, garnished with slices of egg, seaweed, and green onions, making it not only a festive dish but also a nutritious one. Families gather to enjoy this meal together, creating a sense of unity and renewal.

Paying Respect to Ancestors: Charye (차례)

Another essential tradition is Charye, a ritual where families pay respect to their ancestors. During this ceremony, families prepare a table with a variety of traditional foods and offerings. The eldest male family member usually leads the ritual, bowing and praying for the well-being of the ancestors and family members.

Wearing Hanbok (한복)

On Seollal, many Koreans wear hanbok, the traditional Korean attire. Hanbok is characterized by vibrant colors and simple lines without pockets. Wearing hanbok during the New Year adds to the festive atmosphere and signifies a fresh start.

Playing Traditional Games

Seollal is also a time for fun and games. Families often play traditional games like yutnori (윷놀이), a board game that uses wooden sticks as dice, and jegichagi (제기차기), a game similar to hacky sack. These games bring joy and laughter to the celebrations, making them more memorable.

Bowing to Elders: Sebae (세배)

One of the key customs during Seollal is sebae, where younger family members bow deeply to their elders, wishing them a happy new year. In return, the elders give them money or words of wisdom, known as sebaetdon (세뱃돈).

Conclusion

Korean New Year is a rich tapestry of customs that reflect the country’s values of respect, family, and tradition. From eating tteokguk to playing traditional games, every activity during Seollal carries a deeper meaning, making it a cherished time for Koreans. As we explore these unique traditions, we gain a deeper appreciation for Korea’s cultural heritage and the importance of family bonds.