10 Weird Traditions In Korea That You Need To Know

Korea is a country with a rich history and culture. It has a unique set of customs and traditions that have been passed down through the generations and are still practiced today. From the ancient practice of ancestor worship to the modern tradition of wearing a hanbok, Korean culture is full of interesting and unusual customs. Here are 10 weird traditions in Korea that may surprise you.

1. Seaweed Soup for Birthdays – In Korea, it is traditional to eat seaweed soup on one’s birthday. The soup is believed to bring luck and health to the birthday celebrant. It is also believed that the person who eats the soup will be blessed with long life.

2. Bowing – Bowing is an important part of Korean culture. It is a sign of respect and is used as both a greeting and a polite way to thank someone. For example, when meeting someone, one should bow slightly and say “Annyeong haseyo” which means “hello”.

3. Naming Ceremony – A naming ceremony is held for a newborn baby in Korea. During this ceremony, the baby is given its name, and various objects such as a pen, a spoon, and a pair of scissors are placed on top of the baby. This is done to symbolize the child’s future success in life.

4. Funeral Procession – It is traditional in Korea to hold a funeral procession for the deceased. The procession typically consists of a group of people walking around the deceased’s home and chanting prayers. After the procession, the body is carried to the burial site.

5. Gift-Giving – Gift-giving is an important part of Korean culture. When visiting someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift. Gifts are often wrapped in red paper and the color red is believed to bring good luck.

6. Shoes Off – It is considered impolite to wear shoes inside someone’s home in Korea. Shoes should be removed before entering a house, as this shows respect for the host.

7. Hanbok – The hanbok is the traditional dress of Korea. It is a loose, long-sleeved robe that is often worn for special occasions. The color and design of the hanbok can vary depending on the occasion, but it is typically made of bright and vibrant colors.

8. Fortune Telling – Fortune telling is a popular practice in Korea. People will often consult a fortune teller to gain insight into their future or to receive advice on how to make important decisions.

9. Korean Tea Ceremony – The Korean tea ceremony is a traditional event that is held to honor guests. It consists of the host serving tea to the guests and engaging in conversation. The ceremony emphasizes the importance of respect and hospitality.

10. Samulnori – Samulnori is a type of Korean folk music that is performed with four traditional Korean percussion instruments. It is often performed at festivals and celebrations, and is a fun and entertaining way to experience the traditional music of Korea.

Korea is a country with a wealth of fascinating and unique traditions. From the ancient practice of ancestor worship to the modern tradition of wearing a hanbok, there are many customs and beliefs that make Korean culture so interesting. These 10 weird traditions in Korea demonstrate the rich history and culture of the country, and provide a glimpse into the life of modern Koreans.