Happy Seollal!

Happy Seollal everyone! Seollal is a traditional Korean holiday commemorating the start of the New Year according to the lunar calendar; just like Chinese New Year. Many people go back to their hometowns to celebrate with family. Traditionally, Koreans prepare for Seollal the night before by cleaning the house and taking a bath. This year Seollal falls on Valentine's Day. They get up early and dress in traditional Korean costumes like those shown in the picture.

Along with games and traditional customary events, Seollal is filled with many traditional dishes. They day is said to not be complete without eating ttuk-guk, a soup made with round white rice cakes. Braised short ribs are also a common traditional dish for this holiday. Unfortunately, there is not a parade like there is for Chinese New Year and in order to enjoy a traditional Seollal meal we needed to make reservations well in advance. Maybe next year we will be able to partake in Seollal.