Welcoming the Korean Lunar New Year with Tradition and Joy
Seollal: Welcoming the Korean Lunar New Year with Tradition and Joy When most people think of New Year celebrations, they often picture January 1st fireworks and countdowns. But in Korea, there’s another New Year that holds even deeper meaning — Seollal (설날) , the Lunar New Year. Celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar (usually in late January or February), Seollal is one of the most important traditional holidays in Korea. It’s a time for family, food, respect, and meaningful rituals that connect generations. More Than Just a New Year’s Day While modern Koreans do celebrate January 1st like many others around the world, the heart of the New Year spirit lies in Seollal. It’s not just about flipping the calendar — it’s about honoring the past and embracing the future with loved ones . For three days — the day before, the day of, and the day after Seollal — the country slows down as families travel (often long distances) to reunite, pay respects to ancestors, and enjoy ...