Lunar New Year

Seollal (설날), the Korean Lunar New Year, is one of the most significant and cherished traditional holidays in South Korea. Its origins date back to ancient times, rooted in the agricultural cycle of the lunar calendar. Historically, Seollal was a time to honor ancestors and celebrate the beginning of a new year with hope for a bountiful harvest. The holiday reflects deep Confucian values, emphasizing filial piety, family unity, and respect for elders. Over centuries, it evolved from a simple agrarian festival into a national holiday marked by elaborate rituals and widespread travel. In 2026, Seollal falls on February 17, as the first day of the Lunar New Year according to the traditional Korean calendar.

Seollal traditions center on family gatherings and ancestral rites. The day begins with a solemn charye (차례) ceremony, where families offer food and drinks at an ancestral shrine to honor departed relatives. This is followed by sebae (세배), a deep bow performed by younger members to elders, who in return give words of blessing and often small gifts of money (세뱃돈). Wearing hanbok (한복), the traditional Korean attire, is customary during these rituals. A quintessential dish is tteokguk (떡국), a sliced rice cake soup; eating it symbolizes gaining a year of age and good fortune. Families also play folk games such as yutnori (윷놀이) and fly kites. The holiday is also a time for visiting relatives and sharing elaborate meals. The standard greeting during Seollal is "새해 복 많이 받으세요" (Saehae bok mani badeuseyo), meaning "Please receive many New Year blessings."