Ever wondered how Koreans in ancient times -- for some of us, our ancestors -- spent Seollal?
For curious souls, three Seollal events that showcase traditional culture and crafts are happening around central Seoul, where one can partake in the spirit of Seollal by learning, experiencing and, for the most part, having fun.
Although events have partially moved online due to the worsening pandemic situation, there are still many opportunities to participate in festivals and events. Details and any changes to the programs can be found on the official festival and event websites.
(1) Unhyeongung
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Poster of Unhyeongung festival, “Unhyeongung New Year’s Big Festival” |
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Poster of Namsangol Hanok Village festival, “Tigerish New Year’s Day (Hogireowoon Seollal)” |
Namsangol Hanok Village, located at the foot of Namsan in Seoul, will hold a hybrid online and offline cultural festival, “Tigerish New Year‘s Day (Hogireoun Seol)” from Monday to Friday.
On Seollal, Koreans wish for peace and happiness to their families, while also wishing a fruitful and happy new year to neighbors. The “Hositamtam Seollal” event is designed with the same intention, but in a digital format.
Visitors can post photos of Seollal scenes on their Instagram accounts, with a Namsangol Hanok Village hashtag. The mission can be completed by leaving a message on Namsangol Hanok Village’s event post. On Wednesday, a mobile voucher will randomly be sent to 20 participants.
The “Tiger Post” program invites visitors to share their new year’s wishes on the Namsangol Hanok Village’s social media pages. Staff members at the scene will tag your wishes on the wall of Lee Seung-up’s house. Lee, a master craftsman in the Joseon era who built the house himself, was also in charge of constructing Gyeongbukgung.
Those visiting Namsangol Hanok Village during the holiday period can write and post their wish notes on the walls, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Namsangol Hanok Village is open throughout the Seollal holiday.
(3) Seoul Museum of Craft Art
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A sample of a munjado which reads, “kkum,“ meaning dream. (SeMoCA) |