About Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year, known as μ€λ (Seollal) in South Korea, is a significant traditional holiday that marks the beginning of the lunar calendar. It is celebrated to honor ancestors and to wish for a prosperous year ahead.
Lunar New Year is a public holiday in South Korea. In 2025, it falls on Tuesday, January 28. In the local language, this holiday is known as "μ€λ ". This holiday does not fall on the same date every year β its date varies annually.
This is a national holiday, observed throughout all of South Korea. Most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed on this day.
Traditions & Customs
During Seollal, families gather to perform ancestral rites called μ°¨λ‘ (charye), where they pay respects to their ancestors with food offerings. People also wear traditional clothing called ν볡 (hanbok), play folk games, and enjoy special foods like λ‘κ΅ (tteokguk), a rice cake soup that symbolizes the gaining of a year in age.
Did You Know?
A unique aspect of Seollal is the custom of giving and receiving μΈλ±λ (sebaetdon), which are monetary gifts given to children as a blessing for the new year.
Holiday Details
| Holiday Name | Lunar New Year |
| Local Name | μ€λ |
| Date | Tuesday, January 28, 2025 |
| Country |  South Korea |
| Type | Public |
| Scope | National β observed throughout the country |
| Fixed Date | No β date varies annually |
Holiday Greeting
"μν΄ λ³΅ λ§μ΄ λ°μΌμΈμ (Saehae bok mani badeuseyo)"
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of λ‘κ΅ (tteokguk) during Seollal?
Tteokguk is traditionally eaten on Seollal to symbolize the gaining of a year in age. Eating this soup is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the new year.
How do families perform the ancestral rites during Seollal?
Families set up a table with various traditional foods and drinks to honor their ancestors. They bow deeply and offer food, which is a way to show respect and gratitude for their lineage.
What are some popular games played during Seollal?
Traditional games such as μ·λμ΄ (yutnori), a board game played with sticks, and μ κΈ°μ°¨κΈ° (jegichagi), a game similar to hacky sack, are commonly enjoyed during Seollal. These games foster family bonding and add to the festive atmosphere.
When is Lunar New Year 2025 in South Korea?
Lunar New Year 2025 in South Korea falls on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
Is Lunar New Year a public holiday in South Korea?
Yes, Lunar New Year is a public holiday in South Korea. It is observed nationwide.
Is Lunar New Year on the same date every year?
Lunar New Year does not have a fixed date and varies from year to year.
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