Lunar New Year

Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, is one of the most significant traditional holidays in Korea, marking the first day of the lunar calendar. Its origins date back centuries, rooted in Confucian ancestral rites and agrarian celebrations of the harvest cycle. The holiday typically lasts three days, including the day before and after the New Year. In 2026, Seollal falls on February 17, a time when families across South Korea reunite to honor their ancestors and welcome a prosperous new year. Historically, Seollal symbolized renewal and the importance of filial piety, with rituals that reinforce family bonds and respect for elders. Over time, it has evolved to blend ancient customs with modern practices, yet its core remains deeply tied to Korean identity and community.

Central to Seollal is the charye (ancestral memorial rite), where families prepare elaborate food offerings to honor their ancestors. The ritual includes specific dishes like tteokguk (rice cake soup), which symbolizes gaining a year in age and good fortune. After charye, families perform sebae, a deep bow of respect to elders, who in return give blessings and sebaetdon (New Year money) in ornate silk pouches. Children and younger relatives dress in hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) for this exchange. The day continues with shared meals of jeon (savory pancakes), japchae (glass noodles), and sweet rice cakes. Traditional games like yutnori (a board game) and kite flying are popular, along with storytelling and folk performances. The common greeting during Seollal is 'Saehae bok mani badeuseyo' (May you receive many blessings in the new year).