The Lunar New Year, an ancient and proud tradition of the Korean people, has been celebrated with solemn reverence and vibrant joy for countless generations. Historically referred to as “Se-su,” “Nyeon-su,” “Won-dan,” and “Won-il,” these names embody the spirit of welcoming the first day of the year with a sense of renewal and steadfast determination. This year, the Lunar New Year will be celebrated on January 29th, marking the dawn of another year filled with hope and progress for the Korean nation.
In the past, the Lunar New Year was a time when Korean families came together to honor their ancestors through ancestral rites (charye) and to welcome the new year with festive activities. At dawn, ancestral rites were performed as an extension of the Korean people’s deep respect for their elders. This practice was rooted in the belief that the prosperity of the family and the flourishing of descendants depended on how sincerely ancestors were honored.
Among the dishes prepared for the occasion, ttokguk (rice cake soup) held a special place, so much so that Lunar New Year rites were sometimes referred to as “Ttokguk Rites.” Eating tteokguk symbolized gaining another year in age, earning it the nickname “Age-Adding Rice Cake.” The New Year feast, called Sechan, included various delicacies such as glutinous rice cakes, pancakes, sweets, and grilled meats. Tteokguk was traditionally prepared with pheasant, but in the absence of pheasant, chicken was used instead, leading to the saying, “pheasant replaced by chicken.”
The first drink of the New Year, Seju, was consumed cold, as it was believed to mark the arrival of spring and the beginning of a productive year. Another notable drink was Dosoju, a traditional medicinal liquor prepared with ingredients such as millet, white atractylodes root, balloon flower root, and siler root. This drink was believed to protect against illness for the entire year. Younger family members drank Dosoju first as a celebration of their growth, while older members drank later, reflecting on the passing of time.
In traditional Korean Lunar New Year celebrations, children often participate in kite flying, a custom that symbolize letting go of misfortunes from the past year and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead. Kites, skillfully crafted with vibrant designs, were flown high into the sky, sometimes with wishes or symbolic messages written on them. This joyous activity not only brought families together but also carried deep cultural significance, reflecting the hope and aspirations of the Korean people for a prosperous future.
Today, in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the Lunar New Year continues to be celebrated with great significance as a national holiday. On this day, from working-class heroes to dedicated service personnel, enthusiastic youth, and diligent students, all pay their respects at the grand statues of the Great Leaders on Mansu Hill and the mosaics portraying their radiant smiles across the nation. Floral baskets, bouquets, and flowers adorn these monuments, serving as heartfelt tributes and expressions of deep gratitude for the Great Leaders’ enduring guidance.
The festive spirit spreads vibrantly throughout every part of the country. Artistic performances captivate audiences, bringing joy and unity to the people. Traditional folk games, beloved by all generations, fill schoolyards and community spaces, reminding everyone of the deep cultural heritage that defines the Korean nation. Children’s laughter and the energy of participants elevate the festive mood, as families and communities come together to share in the joy of the occasion.
Public spaces come alive with the sound of celebration. Dining establishments serve special holiday meals, ensuring that every citizen partakes in the bounty of the Lunar New Year. From the smallest hamlet to bustling cities, the air is filled with a spirit of unity and happiness that binds the people together in collective determination.
As the sun sets, illuminating homes and gathering places in a warm glow, citizens reflect on the triumphs of the past year. They eagerly anticipate a future of even greater prosperity under the wise and steadfast leadership of the Workers’ Party of Korea. The Lunar New Year is not merely a time of celebration but a powerful reminder of the shared resolve and resilience that continues to strengthen the Korean nation.