_in_a_modern_setting_where_only_the_kids_are_wearing_traditional_.jpeg%3Ftable%3Dblock%26id%3Dd8a56f29-66e7-4520-87d5-0a032851a97a%26cache%3Dv2&w=3840&q=75)
_in_a_modern_setting_where_only_the_kids_are_wearing_traditional_.jpeg?table=block&id=d8a56f29-66e7-4520-87d5-0a032851a97a&cache=v2)
Introduction
The timing of the Lunar New Year, which falls in late January or February, is based on the lunar calendar. Unlike the regular calendar New Year, which follows the Gregorian calendar and is celebrated on January 1st, the Lunar New Year follows the cycles of the moon.
The lunar calendar is a calendar system that is based on the phases of the moon. It consists of 12 lunar months, each lasting approximately 29.5 days. This is shorter than the 30 or 31 days in a month of the regular calendar. As a result, the lunar calendar year is about 11 days shorter than the regular calendar year.
The Lunar New Year, known as Seollal in Korea, is a special time when Koreans come together to celebrate with their families and engage in traditional customs. Seollal is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors through ancestral rites called Jesa, and enjoying delicious traditional food like Tteokguk 떡국. Families also participate in various activities and games, such as Yutnori 윷놀이 , to celebrate the holiday. However, as a foreigner in Korea during this festive season, you may face unique challenges and experiences. This article explores the significance of the Lunar New Year in Korea and provides insights into navigating the holiday as a foreigner.
Seollal 설날
Seollal and Chuseok are the two main holidays in Korea, similar to Christmas in the West. These holidays are highly significant and hold great importance in Korean culture. They are the only times of the year when Koreans have a long consecutive vacation.
The consecutive vacation during Seollal and Chuseok allows Koreans to relax, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with their families. It is a time when many people travel to different parts of the country to visit their relatives and explore new places. The festive atmosphere during these holidays fills the streets with joy and excitement.
During Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, Koreans prioritize spending time with their families and participating in various traditional customs. Seollal 설날 is a time for family reunions and honoring ancestors. Families gather together to perform ancestral rites, known as Jesa 제사, where they pay respects to their deceased ancestors by setting up a memorial table and offering food and drinks.
New Year Korean Traditional Food
Another significant aspect of Seollal is the preparation and sharing of traditional food. One of the most well-known dishes is Tteokguk 떡국, a hearty soup made with sliced rice cakes, beef or pork, and various vegetables. Eating Tteokguk 떡국 during Seollal is believed to bring good luck and symbolizes the gaining of another year of age. Families also enjoy other traditional dishes like Jeon 전 (pan-fried battered food), Mandu 만두 (dumplings), and various side dishes.
_%2525E1%252584%25258C%2525E1%252585%2525A5%2525E1%252586%2525AB_(Korean_.jpeg%3Ftable%3Dblock%26id%3Dcccad69a-ae5d-468f-b713-68bd74ab1ca5%26cache%3Dv2&w=3840&q=75)
Family Time
Throughout Seollal, families engage in various activities and games to celebrate the holiday. Yutnori 윳놀이, a traditional board game, is commonly played during this time. Families gather around to roll four wooden sticks and move their game pieces accordingly. Other activities include playing traditional folk games, exchanging gifts, and watching special TV programs that air during the holiday.
_a_traditional_Korean_game_during_a_festive_gathering._The_scene_is_s.jpeg%3Ftable%3Dblock%26id%3Da7e92c59-5c38-44b6-817c-b29d4468d951%26cache%3Dv2&w=3840&q=75)
Seollal as a Foreigner
As a foreigner in Korea during the Lunar New Year, it can indeed be a challenging time. While most Koreans are back in their hometowns visiting their families, you may find yourself sitting alone in your room, sending messages to wish everyone a happy new year. It can be a lonely experience, especially if your own family is abroad.
Traveling During the Holidays
One difficulty you may encounter is the limited availability of services and activities during this time. Many smaller stores and businesses are closed, and only the bigger hotspots tend to remain open. As a result, it can be challenging to find places to eat or shop. Additionally, if you plan to travel within Korea during the Lunar New Year, you may face obstacles such as high travel prices and limited transportation options. The demand for flights and train tickets is usually high, and it can be difficult to secure affordable accommodations.
Expat Community
As a foreigner, you might feel like an outsider during this period, as you don't have the same family connections or cultural background. However, this can also be an opportunity to create your own expat family and celebrate the holiday season together with friends. You can organize gatherings, cook Korean meals, and enjoy each other's company, turning the experience into a memorable and enjoyable time. I celebrated Last Year’s New Year in a Guesthouse, with other Foreigners and we tried to make Korean Dishes together it was chaotic and fun.
Conclusion
Overall, being a foreigner in Korea during the Lunar New Year can present challenges in terms of limited services, high travel costs, and a sense of isolation. However, with some planning and the support of your expat community, you can make the most of this unique holiday and create meaningful memories.
Whenever you're ready, there are ways I can help you:
Want to Get Weekly Guides Like This in Korea?
Join over 750 weekly Readers in my newsletter to stay updated on the latest information about Life in Korea 🇰🇷
Need Help with Your Questions About Living in Korea?
Are you planning to move to Korea or already living here but still have some unanswered questions? Don't worry! I'm here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need advice on cultural nuances, navigating the immigration, or just want to know the best places to eat and visit, I've got you covered.
How Can I Help You?
- Personalized Advice: Get tailored advice specific to your situation, whether you're a student, a professional, or a tourist.
- Cultural Insights: Learn about Korean customs, etiquette, and how to make the most of your time here.
- Practical Tips: From finding accommodation to understanding public transport, I'll provide you with practical tips to make your life easier.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other expats and locals to build your network in Korea.
- Exclusive Resources: Gain access to exclusive guides and resources that can help you navigate life in Korea.
Book a Meeting with Kim
If you still have open questions, why not book a one-on-one meeting with me? I can provide you with personalized support and answer all your queries in detail.
- Schedule a Meeting: Visit my Booking Page to select a convenient time.
- Prepare Your Questions: Make a list of your questions so we can cover everything you need during our meeting.
- Get Expert Advice: During the meeting, I'll provide you with expert advice and actionable steps to help you succeed in Korea.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to get all your questions answered and make your experience in Korea as smooth as possible. Book your meeting today and let's get started!
About the Author
Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen)
Cloud Engineer / WebApp Developer 💻
Content Creator Bridging Korea 🇰🇷 to the World 🌎
Startup Founder based in Seoul, South Korea 🚀
The blog published by Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen) is available for informational purposes only and is not considered legal advice on any subject matter.
