First Korean New Year Photo Session & Fun Facts
Did you know that today is the Korean New Year? Don’t worry, I didn’t either. It was only recently that this holiday was brought to my attention, by a sweet Korean mom at church. Only knowing her in passing, she approached me with the opportunity to dress up my daughter in traditional Korean “hanbok” formal wear. I mean how amazing for someone that barely knows me to reach out with such an amazing opportunity?
I was also reminded that today is the start of Lunar New Year, which would be perfect for me to blog about (she gives blog ideas too!). Seriously so excited to learn more about celebrating my first Korean New Year, I immediately plunged into a bunch of research and well, an adorable first Korean New Year photo session. Check out these Lunar New Year movies for kids!
Korean New Year Fun Facts
Celebration of the Korean New Year goes back as far as the early 1300s
The Korean New Year is the first day of the Korean Lunar calendar, generally the 2nd new moon after the winter solstice
The Korean New Year celebration lasts 3 days, the day before, the day of and the day after
The celebration of the new year is deeply rooted in family tradition. Many will travel back to their hometowns to be with parents and relatives for the holiday.
While the Korean New Year normally falls on the same day as the Chinese New Year, once every 24 years the day falls on the day after.
The Sebeh is a family rooted tradition performed during the new year, where the children respectfully bow to their elders. In return, the elders reward children with money in silken luck bags for good luck.
Games, traditional food and warding off of evil spirits are also a part of the 3 day celebration.
I think what shocked me the most about the Korean New Year was that there was very little if any talk about going into the streets, having a massive block party and celebrating with champagne and concerts and craziness. But the New Year stays at home, with family, respect and honor.
So while I might not be celebrating the Korean New Year in any traditional sense, I did give me children some money, kisses and a good dose of family tradition.
Do you celebrate the Korean New Year?
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Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
She is too cute. I love the outfit 🙂
Sara P. (@SensiblySara) says
She is the CUTEST! We don’t celebrate the Korean New Year but I didn’t realize that it dates back to the 1300s!
Catherine S says
She is so cute and that outfit is just adorable. I did not know that today was the North Korean New Year. Thanks for teaching me something new.
Jeanine says
She is adorable! We’ve never celebrated but I love learning about it!
Pam says
We don’t celebrate the Korean New Year, but I love learning about it. Your daughter is just too cute in these photos!
Shop with Me Mama (Kim) says
Wow, what a cutie pie you have there! And that outfit is way too cute on her! We don’t celebrate this, but sounds like fun!
Jen-Eighty MPH Mom says
My gosh she is adorable!! I didn’t know it was National Korean Day either – interesting!
Stephanie says
What a beautiful little outfit for a beautiful little girl! I don’t know anything about Korean New Year celebrations, but she sure looks like she’s enjoying it!
Melissa says
How special that she approached you. These pictures are darling. So interesting too!
Chrysa says
She is SOOOO beautiful!! The pictures look wonderful with that bright outfit. Love them!
Veronica says
I love the outfit! Very pretty! She is so adorable
Alesha @ Full Time Mama says
How neat that she came to you and offered this idea (and her clothes)! Such a fun photo shoot- the pictures came out beautiful!!
Rosey says
That was a great opportunity. And she’s always so cute. You’ve got some really great pictures here too!
Kay Adeola says
She is super cute and great photos,It is interesting to learn these facts so thank you.
valerie g says
wow, that outfit is beautiful! I love the colors and the detail!! very cool.
Beth@FrugalFroggie says
I didn’t even know about the Korean New Year. Your daughter looks great in the traditional Korean outfit.
Rachelle J says
What a beautiful photo shoot and model! I love hearing about different cultures celebrations!
ora lee gurr says
I know that you made your friend happy, too, by letting your daughter make the day special in a ceremonial outfit. These are pictures she’ll treasure forever. Happy New Year for all cultures.
Theresa says
I love all the fun colors in the outfit! We don’t celebrate it, but I think it’s fascinating to read about others who do!
Debbie Denny says
Jus a real cutie you have. Great way to instill culture and tradition.