SEOLLAL

This is the Lunar New Year and it is one of the most important celebrations. It takes place over 3 days during which the Koreans gather as a family and honour their ancestors. It is held on the first day of the first lunar month, late January/early February. Early in the morning a ceremony (charye) is held in honour of the ancestors. We do a series of salutations at an altar laden with food. Then we have lunch and visit the various relatives and graves. The Koreans are taking a few days off and many shops are closed.