The spirit of Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, came alive on 17 February as the Korean Cultural Centre India held a vibrant cultural gathering at its centre in New Delhi. This was attented by over 90 students enrolled in its Korean language programmes for an event of tradition, reflection, and cultural exchange.

Marking the beginning of the Lunar New Year, Seollal is one of Korea’s most cherished holidays – a time for families to gather, pay respects to elders, share blessings, and look ahead with hope.

The event began with an introduction to Seollal customs, including family greetings, the traditional New Year’s bow (sebae), the sharing of words of blessing (deokdam), and the significance of eating tteokguk (rice cake soup).

Participants were guided through the cultural meanings behind these traditions, helping them

understand how the Lunar New Year is celebrated in Korea.

The highlight of the celebration was the Full Moon Wish-Making Ceremony. A luminous image of the full moon was projected in the auditorium, recreating the spirit of the first full moon of the lunar year. We invited students to write down their wishes for the year on special wish cards, reflecting on personal goals, gratitude, and dreams for the future.