South Korea Celebrates Traditional Lunar New Year Fire Rituals

SEOUL, Jan. 11 (Korea Bizwire) —  On the eve of Jeongwol Daeboreum, the first full moon of the lunar year, communities across South Korea gathered for traditional celebrations, including the centuries-old ritual of Daljip Burning (Sheaf burning).

This practice, deeply rooted in Korean folklore, involves setting fire to large structures made of straw and pine branches to ward off misfortune and pray for prosperity in the coming year.

 

The shape and construction of Daljip structures vary by region, but they are generally built by arranging three wooden poles in a conical formation, binding them at the top, and covering the frame with thatched straw.

To prevent the structure from burning too quickly, pine branches are often added. On the night of the festival, Daljip structures, prepared in advance, are set ablaze as the full moon rises.

According to tradition, bowing in front of the burning Daljip is believed to protect individuals from boils and other ailments throughout the year, while also helping them endure the summer heat.

The way the Daljip burns is thought to predict the year’s fortunes—if it burns brightly and completely, a bountiful harvest is expected; if it smolders or extinguishes prematurely, it is seen as an omen of poor crops.

Bamboo is frequently placed within the Daljip to produce loud cracking sounds when burned, a symbolic gesture to drive away evil spirits.

Before the fire is lit, musicians and festivalgoers typically dance around the structure, building anticipation until the moment when torches are used to ignite the Daljip under the glow of the full moon.

The Jeongwol Daeboreum festivities continue to be a vibrant and significant part of Korean culture, blending spiritual beliefs with communal joy as people welcome the first full moon of the lunar calendar with fire, music, and hope for the year ahead.

Image credit: Yonhap, Cheongdo-gun / photonews@koreabizwire.com