What is 설날?
설날 (Seollal) is the Korean Lunar New Year, one of the most important traditional holidays in Korea. It usually falls in late January or early February according to the lunar calendar.
Cultural Significance
During 설날, families gather to honor ancestors, share special foods like 떡국 (rice cake soup), and perform 세배 (a deep traditional bow) to show respect to elders. It is a time for renewal and wishing good fortune for the new year.
Common Collocations
- 설날 연휴 (Seollal holiday break): the extended holiday period around 설날.
- 설날 음식 (Seollal food): traditional dishes eaten during 설날, such as 떡국 and 한과 (traditional sweets).
- 설날 세배 (Seollal bow): the respectful bow performed to elders.
Usage Notes
설날 is always used to refer to the Lunar New Year, not the solar New Year's Day (which is called 새해 or 신정). Learners often confuse 설날 with 새해, but 설날 carries strong cultural and familial traditions.
Politeness and Register
설날 is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. When talking about the holiday respectfully, you might hear 설날 연휴 or 설날 행사 (Seollal events).