Seollal 설날, Korean Lunar New Year is recognised at different times each year depending on the lunar calendar and is celebrated over three days. In 2020 on the Gregorian calendar it begins on Jan 24th and ends Jan 26th.
Seollol is a time to honour and pay respect to your ancestors through the performance of traditional rites, known as Charye 차례. Special hanbok 한복, are also worn during the ceremonies.
It is a time to gather with family and friends, play folk games and share stories and food. You will undoubtedly find a table filled with lots of Korean dishes, some of which take a lot of preparation and with specific foods to be eaten at certain times. Tteokguk 떡국 (rice cake soup) plays an important role in Seollol. There have been periods in history when rice was expensive and hard to get so was not eaten very often. On this special occasion, it is a must-have. It is said in Korean culture that one has not aged a year unless you’ve had tteokguk.
One of the new year customs is called Sebae 세배. This is when younger family members pay respect to their elders by bowing deeply, touching the ground with their hands and offering blessings for longevity and health. In return, the elders offer blessings and wishes for a prosperous year. At this time children often receive Sebaetdon 세뱃돈, a new year’s gift of money.
No matter what New Year’s you recognise, make sure to spend time with family and friends and have plenty of yummy Korean food!
새해 복 많이 받으세요 (saehae bok mani badeuseyo).
Translation: Please receive lots of good luck this New Year! Thank you.
고맙습니다, 고맙습니다.