Looking for birthday traditions in Korea? We’ve gathered the complete guide for Korean birthday traditions – including how they celebrate, gifting etiquette, and traditional food and drink.
Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a memorable gift experience or a thoughtful gift.
To help you explore Korean traditions, this article is organized into:
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Unique Birthday Traditions in Korea
Birthdays in Korea are celebrated with unique customs and traditions that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the country.
- Age on New Year’s: Koreans consider everyone a year older on Lunar New Year, not their individual birthdays. So, although you might be 25 internationally, in Korea, you might be 26 if born before the Lunar New Year.
- Birthday Numerology: Koreans believe certain numbers hold special meanings on birthdays. For example, the number 8 symbolizes wealth and prosperity.
- Birthday Colors: Different birthdays are associated with specific colors, and some Koreans like to decorate or dress accordingly.
- Birthday Activities: Singing karaoke is a popular birthday activity, enjoyed with friends and family. Posting birthday greetings on social media is also an important custom nowadays.
How to Say “Happy Birthday” in Korean?
The most common way to wish someone a happy birthday in Korean is 생일 축하해요 (saeng-il chuk-ha-hae-yo). Here are some variations depending on the Confucian respect context:
- To a friend: 친구에게: 친구 생일 축하해! (chingu saeng-il chuk-ha-hae!)
- To family: 가족에게: 생일 축하해, (사랑하는) (name)! (saeng-il chuk-ha-hae, (sarang-haneun) (name)!) – (with “사랑하는” meaning “loving”)
- In a formal setting: 공식적인 상황: 생일 축하드립니다. (saeng-il chuk-ha-deuripnida)
Here are some of the best birthday wishes in Korean:
- 오늘은 당신과 당신이 훌륭한 사람임을 축하하는 날이에요. 생일 축하해요! (Today is all about celebrating you and the amazing person you are. Happy birthday!)
- 생일 축하해요! 사랑과 웃음, 소중한 순간으로 가득한 하루를 기대해봐요. (Happy birthday! Here’s to a day filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments.)
- 당신이 가장 행복해하는 모든 것으로 가득 찬 하루를 기원합니다. 생일 축하해요! (Wishing you a day filled with all the things that make you happiest. Happy birthday!)
Still haven’t found the perfect wish? Here is our full article on How to Say Happy Birthday in Korean.
Birthday Gift Etiquette in Korea
When giving gifts in Korea, it’s important to consider cultural etiquette:
Do’s in Gifting
- Money in special envelopes called “sebaetdon” is a universally appreciated and safe gift option. Choose crisp bills in new condition.
- Consider personalizing your gift with a handwritten card or message.
- If invited to a home celebration, bring a small token of appreciation for the host, like fruit or flowers.
Don’ts in Gifting
- Don’t give used items or sharp objects, which symbolize bad luck.
- Don’t forget to wrap your gift beautifully; presentation matters in Korean culture.
- Don’t arrive empty-handed, even if it’s a casual gathering.
Most Celebrated Birthday Milestones in Korea
Korean birthday celebrations often involve honoring both the individual and their family by celebrating special milestones.
Baek-il (100th Day)
The 100th-day celebration is a significant milestone in Korean culture celebrated when a baby turns 100 days old.
Historically, infant mortality rates were high, so reaching the 100th day was considered an auspicious occasion deserving of celebration. Baek-il is marked by various rituals and customs, including offering prayers for the baby’s health and longevity, giving gifts to the child, and hosting a feast with family and friends.
Doljanchi (First Birthday)
This elaborate ceremony involves choosing the child’s future path by placing objects on a tray and seeing what they pick first. Traditionally, gold rings were offered, symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
Hwanggap (60th Birthday)
This milestone birthday is a grand celebration with traditional music, elaborate food, and even the birthday person dressing in children’s clothing to symbolize a “rebirth.”
Conclusion
Celebrating birthdays in Korea goes beyond cake and candles. It’s a time to cherish family, honor traditions, and embrace vibrant cultural expressions.
Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a thoughtful gift or a memorable gift experience.
So, here’s to the Korean way of celebrating birthdays!
Sophie is an etiquette coach who has the rare ability to make the intricacies of etiquette approachable and fun. She travels around the world coaching families, individuals, corporates and independent schools. Sophie has honed her craft without losing her easy-going charm.