한국 아저씨의 오두막
Korean Uncle Cabin

  If you are invited to a family gathering in South Korea to celebrate an older relative's 60th or 70th birthday, you will encounter a grand and deeply meaningful tradition. In the West, birthdays are generally celebrated with a small party or a simple cake, regardless of the age. However, in Korea, turning 60 or 70 is regarded as a major life milestone and is celebrated with magnificent feasts and heartfelt ceremonies known as Hwangap (환갑) and Chilsun (칠순).

  If you participate in a business dinner or a social gathering in South Korea, you will quickly notice that drinking alcohol is much more than just a way to relax. It is a social ritual deeply intertwined with respect, hierarchy, and relationship building. A classic example of this is the etiquette of turning one's head away when drinking in front of an elder or a senior colleague, and receiving a glass with both hands.

  If you travel across South Korea in May, you will find many cultural festivals and ceremonies. Among them, May 11th holds a uniquely significant place in the nation's modern history. It is the official anniversary of the Donghak Peasant Revolution (동학농민혁명), a massive uprising that took place in 1894.

  If you are invited to celebrate a child's first birthday in South Korea, you will witness one of the most vibrant and meaningful traditions in Korean culture: the Doljanchi (돌잔치). Among the many joyful events of this celebration, the absolute highlight for both family and guests is the Doljabi (돌잡이). During this moment, the one-year-old baby is placed in front of various objects and encouraged to pick one.