Seollal (설날), or the Korean Lunar New Year, is one of South Korea’s most celebrated holidays. Falling on the first day of the lunar calendar, Seollal signifies the beginning of a new year and serves as a time for family reunions, ancestor veneration, and cultural traditions. While Seollal lasts for three days, its cultural importance extends far beyond the holiday itself.
Here’s everything you need to know about Seollal, including unique traditions, food, games, and folk beliefs that make this celebration truly special.
 |
| Seollal - Korean New Year |
1. What is Seollal? Understanding the Korean Lunar New Year
The term "Seol (설)" originates from the Korean word “낯설,” meaning "unfamiliar" or "new.” Seollal represents a period of transition from the past year to a new one, a time when families reflect on the old while embracing the future.
Seollal is not just about celebrating the New Year; it is deeply rooted in Korean culture as a time to honor ancestors, strengthen family bonds, and wish for good fortune.
2. Key Seollal Traditions You Need to Know
Preparations for Seollal
In the days leading up to Seollal, families prepare by shopping for gifts, food for traditional ceremonies, and special dishes. This preparation sets the stage for honoring ancestors and celebrating with loved ones.
 |
| Seollal gifts |
Gift-giving is an integral part of the holiday, symbolizing respect and gratitude. Popular Seollal gifts include:
- Cash or gift cards for practical use.
- Ginseng and honey for health and well-being.
- Luxury items like beef or seafood to show appreciation.
- Daily essentials like soap or toothpaste for thoughtful utility.
Wearing Hanbok (한복)
Hanbok, Korea's traditional clothing, is worn during Seollal to embody cultural pride and elegance. Families often wear Hanbok during ancestral rituals and other festive events, adding a sense of tradition to the celebration.
 |
| Hanbok |
Charye (차례) – Honoring Ancestors
The holiday begins with Charye, a ceremonial rite where families gather to honor their ancestors. By presenting carefully prepared food on an altar, families express gratitude and pray for peace and prosperity in the coming year.
 |
| The Ancestral Rite Table |
3. Food and Symbolism During Seollal
Tteokguk (떡국)
Tteokguk, a soup made with sliced rice cakes, beef, and vegetables, is a must-have dish during Seollal. Eating tteokguk symbolizes growing a year older and wishing for good health and longevity.
 |
| Tteokguk |
Manduguk (만두국)
Manduguk, or dumpling soup, is another beloved dish, often served alongside tteokguk. Dumplings symbolize abundance and good fortune.
 |
| Manduguk |
Traditional Food Offerings
During Charye, families prepare an elaborate spread of ceremonial dishes, following strict rules to ensure harmony and balance. Key offerings include:
- Galbijjim (갈비찜): Braised short ribs for strength and prosperity.
- Japchae (잡채): Stir-fried glass noodles, symbolizing long life and happiness.
- Han-gwa (한과): Sweet rice-based treats that signify good fortune.
- Rice cakes (떡): Staples of Korean celebrations, symbolizing togetherness.
Each dish reflects a wish for prosperity and harmony in the new year.
4. Unique Seollal Customs
Sebae (세배)
Sebae is a traditional New Year’s bow performed by younger family members to elders. This act of respect comes with heartfelt wishes for health and success. In return, elders offer blessings and Sebae-don (세뱃돈), or money for good luck, to children.
 |
| Sebae -Korean traditional bowing |
Bokjori (복조리)
Many families hang Bokjori, a traditional Korean straw charm, on their doors to invite good luck and prosperity into their homes. The earlier in the morning they hear the Bokjori seller, the more fortune they believe they will receive.
 |
| Bokjori - Korean straw charm |
5. Folk Games to Enjoy During Seollal
Seollal is also a time for family bonding through fun, meaningful games that carry cultural significance:
Yutnori (윷놀이): |
| Yutnori game |
Tuho is a precision-based game where players aim to throw arrows into a narrow container. Originally a pastime for Korean aristocrats, Tuho is now enjoyed by everyone during Seollal.
 |
| Tuho game |
Flying kites is a favorite Seollal activity. Koreans believe that releasing kites into the sky drives away bad luck and ensures good health for the year.
 |
| Yeonnaligi -kite flying |
This game resembles shuttlecock kicking, where players try to keep a small weighted object in the air using their feet. It’s a fun way to stay active during the holiday.
 |
| Jegichagi game |
6. Folk Beliefs and Superstitions During Seollal
Korean folk beliefs add an interesting layer to Seollal traditions:
- It is believed that sleeping on New Year’s Eve causes your eyebrows to turn white and dulls your mind for the year ahead. To avoid this, many Koreans stay awake all night.
- Another belief warns that ghosts may steal shoes during Seollal, taking away the owner's luck. To prevent this, people hide their shoes in secure places.
7. Travel and Celebrations During Seollal
Seollal is also a peak travel season, as families visit ancestral homes or traditional sites. Popular destinations include:
- Ski resorts: A modern way to enjoy the holiday season.
- Hanok villages: Traditional Korean houses that offer a glimpse into the past.
- Museums and palaces: Perfect spots to explore history and culture.
Festivals and exhibitions also showcase Korea's rich heritage during this time.
 |
| Samulnori - traditional music performance |
Conclusion
Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, is more than just a holiday—it’s a cultural celebration filled with meaningful traditions, delicious food, and cherished family moments. From the ceremonial Charye to the playful Yutnori, Seollal reflects Korea's vibrant heritage and its emphasis on gratitude, respect, and hope for the future.
Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or learning about Korean culture, Seollal offers a beautiful reminder of the importance of family and new beginnings.