Seollal, one of Korea’s most significant traditional holidays, marks the first day of the lunar year. It usually falls on the first day of the lunar calendar, and on this day, it is customary for families to gather to eat rice cake soup (tteokguk) and exchange words of blessing. Korea has long used the lunar calendar, and Seollal is a traditional holiday with deep historical significance. Although Seollal is sometimes referred to as ‘Gujeong’ (Old New Year), this is not an appropriate e-x-p-r-e-s-s-i-o-n. Throughout history, there have been numerous challenges in preserving Seollal.

 

In the past, January 1 of the solar calendar was called ‘Sinjeong’ (New Year) and was designated as a public holiday, but since 1999, this holiday has been reduced to a single day. Although the term ‘Sinjeong’ is still commonly used in daily life, the official term ‘the first day of the new year’ is more frequently used.

During the Japanese colonial period, Seollal faced suppression under the ‘policy of eradicating traditional culture,’ and even after Korea's liberation, its status as a national holiday was unstable. It was not until 1985 that Seollal was designated as ‘Minjok’s Day’ (Folk Day) and recognized as a one-day public holiday. In 1989, the name ‘Seollal’ was officially restored, and since then, its importance has been increasingly emphasized, shaping the holiday as we know it today.

 

Around the world, various celebrations are held to welcome the new year. For example, in New York Times Square, countless people gather to count down and celebrate the new year.

 

After the eventful year of 2024, I hope that the Year of the Blue Snake, 2025, will be a year when everyone’s wishes come true, filled with love and happiness.