South Korea is a country where rapid technological advancement meets rich historical traditions. It harbors a fascinating blend of old and new.
Among its cultural treasures, superstitions hold a special place, weaving together the fabric of society with threads of ancient beliefs and modern interpretations.
While some superstitions in Korea may have surfaced globally, many lesser-known ones offer a deeper insight into the country’s cultural nuances.
Here, we delve into some of the most intriguing Korean superstitions that remain relatively obscure outside the peninsula.
Superstitions in Korea Most People Don’t Know
The Number Four
The superstition surrounding the number four (‘사’, sa) in Korea is rooted deeply in language and cultural perception. This aversion is primarily because ‘사’ (sa, four) phonetically resembles ‘사망’ (samang, death), creating an eerie resonance that has been historically and culturally hardwired into the Korean psyche.
The fear of this number manifests in various aspects of daily life, including architecture, where the fourth floor is often omitted or replaced with “F” in elevators.
Similarly, presenting gifts in sets of four is considered inauspicious, especially during significant life events such as weddings or funerals, where the symbolism of numbers holds weighted meaning.
This superstition is a poignant reflection of the human desire to avoid the mention or reminder of death, encapsulated in the everyday.
Whistling at Night
One of the oldest superstitions in Korea is that whistling at night can attract ghosts.
This belief is intertwined with the country’s rich folklore, with tales of spirits and otherworldly beings. The belief suggests whistling, especially under the cloak of darkness, invites unseen spirits into the living world.
It is a testament to the traditional Korean worldview, which maintains a profound respect and wariness toward the supernatural. It also emphasizes the thin and porous boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead.
Dreaming of Pigs
Dreams play a significant role in many cultures, and Korea has its unique interpretation, especially concerning pigs.
Dreaming of pigs is considered a lucky omen, heralding a period of upcoming prosperity and good fortune. This belief likely has roots in agricultural societies, where pigs were valuable assets, representing wealth and sustenance.
Sharing these dreams is encouraged, as it is believed to amplify the dream’s optimistic nature, spreading prosperity to those who hear about it. This superstition beautifully illustrates how traditional beliefs can intersect with communal values, reinforcing bonds between individuals through sharing good fortune.
Shaking Your Legs
In a society where hard work and perseverance are highly valued, the seemingly innocuous act of shaking one’s leg while seated is frowned upon.
This action is metaphorically seen as shaking off one’s luck or fortune, casting it away with each movement. Such a belief underscores the Korean values of stability and respect for what one has been blessed with.
It’s a cautionary tale against restlessness and a reminder of the importance of gratitude.
In a society that values hard work and perseverance, this superstition is a subtle nudge to remain grounded and mindful of one’s actions and their potential implications on one’s fate and fortune.
Writing Names in Red Ink
The use of red ink to write names has a grim history.
Traditionally, it was used to record the names of the deceased, a practice that has imbued the color with associations of death and mourning.
Thus, writing a living person’s name in red ink is considered a warning of death or severe misfortune, casting a shadow over the individual’s fate.
This superstition is a vivid example of how colors can carry deep cultural significance and taboos, with the act of writing becoming a powerful medium for conveying wishes for life or death.
Adherence to this superstition persists in contemporary Korea, demonstrating the enduring influence of historical practices on modern sensibilities.
Jumping Over a Child
In Korea, there’s a unique belief about jumping over someone, especially regarding children.
People think that if you jump over a child, you might accidentally trap their spirit. It could stop them from growing properly, both in how tall they become and how they develop otherwise.
This superstition is about showing care and respect for others, especially kids who are still growing. It’s a reminder to be mindful of the space around us and our action’s impact on others, even if we don’t mean any harm.
This belief is part of a more considerable respect for helping children grow up healthy and strong, both on the outside and inside.
The New Year’s First Dream
The first dream of the New Year holds significant weight in predicting the fortune or misfortune one may encounter in the upcoming year.
Known as ‘해몽’ (haemong), the interpretation of dreams is a complex tradition, with specific symbols and scenarios considered particularly auspicious or ominous.
This superstition highlights the Korean value placed on dreams as messages from the subconscious or divine.
Giving Shoes to Your Partner
In South Korea, the tradition of not giving shoes to a romantic partner is based on the superstition that such a gesture forebodes the end of the relationship.
This belief is deeply embedded in the symbolism of shoes—not just as everyday objects but as carriers of fate and change.
In this context, shoes are designed to take us places and are feared to take the loved one away, initiating an unintended journey away from the giver.
The superstition is a poignant reminder of the layers of meaning attributed to seemingly simple acts of giving within Korean culture.
When selecting presents for significant others, many Koreans opt for items that embody permanence and closeness.
These gifts reinforce the relationship’s foundations as tokens of enduring affection rather than catalysts for change. From jewelry that signifies a lasting commitment to handwritten letters that convey deep personal sentiments, the focus is on nurturing and solidifying the connection.
A Modern Myth About Electric Fans
The fear of fan death, or ‘Seonpoonggi samangseol,’ is one of the most internationally known Korean superstitions, yet it remains deeply misunderstood.
Rooted in a combination of 20th-century media reports and perhaps governmental energy-saving campaigns, the belief that sleeping in a closed room with an active electric fan can cause death spans concerns over hypothermia to asphyxiation.
This superstition underscores the Korean concern with harmony between technology and health and a collective caution towards new inventions, reflecting broader anxieties about modern life’s pace and its impact on traditional values.
Sticky Foods for Sticky Knowledge
If you have watched coming-of-age South Korean dramas, you’d know that consuming sticky foods like ‘yeot’ (a traditional Korean taffy) before exams is considered effective for good luck.
This practice, aimed at making knowledge ‘stick’ in the mind, illustrates the importance of education in Korean society and the collective efforts to support students’ success.
Conversely, slippery foods like seaweed soup are avoided for fear they might cause one’s grasp on knowledge to ‘slip’ away. This superstition reveals how deeply educational success is woven into the fabric of Korean culture, reflecting the high value placed on academic achievement.
Stepping Over Thresholds
In Korean culture, the threshold of a doorway is not just a physical boundary but a profoundly symbolic one, charged with ancient beliefs and practices concerning life, death, and the afterlife.
This space is revered as a critical divide between our tangible world and the elusive realm of spirits.
The hesitation to step over door thresholds is steeped in a superstition in Korea that regards these spaces as sacred, respecting the spiritual world and the deceased.
Placing Mirrors In Front of Doors
The avoidance of placing mirrors directly in front of doors is a precaution against deflecting incoming good fortune. In Korean belief systems, mirrors have the power to reflect positive and negative energy.
Placing a mirror opposite a door is thought to bounce the good luck of entering guests or positive energies back out of the home, thereby robbing the household of potential blessings.
This superstition is part of a broader sensitivity to the flow of energy, or ‘qi,’ within domestic spaces, highlighting the desire for harmony and prosperity within the home.
Washing Hair on Important Occasions
In South Korea, there’s a particular belief about hair washing that might sound a bit unusual.
People think you shouldn’t wash your hair on important days, like the first day of the New Year or before big exams.
Why? They believe that good luck sticks to you, almost like an invisible layer of good vibes, from head to toe.
Washing your hair on these big days is seen as washing away all that good luck you’ve gathered up just when you need it the most.
Think of it like this: imagine you’ve got a coat of good luck painted all over you. On days when you want things to go well, like New Year’s when you’re hoping for a fantastic year ahead or before a big test when you’re crossing your fingers for top marks, you wouldn’t want to rinse that luck off, right?
That’s the idea here. It’s all about keeping that good-luck coat on to help you kick off to a great start or ace that exam.
Nighttime Nail Trimming
In Korea, there’s an old saying that cutting your nails once the sun has set could bring bad luck.
Some even say that the clippings could turn into scary monsters! It might sound strange, but there’s a reason behind it.
Long ago, before houses had lights, cutting your nails at night could lead to cuts or scrapes because it was too dark to see correctly. So, people started saying it was bad luck, partly to keep everyone safe from little accidents.
But there’s more to it than just avoiding cuts. Koreans also believe in keeping things clean and tidy, including how we get rid of nail clippings. Leaving them around at night was thought to attract unwanted spirits or negative energy.
So, by waiting until daylight to trim nails, you could see better, stay safe, and avoid bad vibes. It’s a simple way to look after your physical and spiritual well-being, ensuring nothing spooky comes your way just because of a late-night nail trim.
Chicken Wings and Fidelity
There’s a playful superstition in Korea that if your boyfriend or husband eats chicken wings, he might just “fly” away from you, similar to how a bird uses wings to fly.
This idea mixes food with feelings of love and staying faithful.
It gently reminds people to think about what they eat, as it could, funnily, influence their relationships.
The idea is that choosing specific foods also decides how you treat the person you love.
So, in Korea, some might avoid giving their loved ones chicken wings, hoping to keep their relationship strong and grounded rather than providing wings to someone who might “fly” away.
This belief shows how important it is to consider even the small things in life, like the food we eat, as symbols of how we care for each other.
Be Careful With Your Chopsticks
In Korea, eating isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about tradition, respect, and, yes, a bit of superstition, too.
One of the first things you might notice is that chopsticks in Korea are often metal, which can be tricky to use if you’re not used to them. But a more critical rule about chopsticks goes beyond just getting food into your mouth.
When eating with chopsticks in Korea, never stick them straight up in your bowl of rice. Why? It looks too similar to the way incense sticks stand during funeral services. In Korea, this is a big no-no.
People believe it can bring bad luck or even invite death. It’s a powerful reminder of how deeply traditions and beliefs about life and the afterlife are woven into everyday actions.
This superstition isn’t just about avoiding bad luck; it’s a sign of respect for those who have passed away and a way to keep their memory alive in daily practices.
So, next time you’re enjoying a delicious rice bowl in Korea, remember to lay your chopsticks down. It’s a small gesture, but it means a lot in the rich tapestry of Korean culture.
Chopsticks and Marital Destiny
In Korean dining culture, a quirky superstition ties your way of holding chopsticks to your marital future.
It’s a tale told from generation to generation, sparking both amusement and a bit of contemplation among those who hear it.
The story goes that the closer you hold your chopsticks to their tips, the longer you’ll have to wait to tie the knot.
Imagine your future marital status predicted by how you wield your chopsticks at dinner!
Holding your chopsticks near the base, not the tips, is the hallmark of a poised and polished eater. It’s about more than just style; it’s a sign of maturity and readiness to take on the world, including the world of marriage.
This superstition serves multiple purposes. For one, it injects a bit of fun into the learning process. Children and teenagers, eager to prove their maturity, might find themselves wondering if there’s a grain of truth to the tale. It’s also a reminder of the importance of etiquette in Korean culture—which values respect, harmony, and proper conduct in every aspect of life, including eating.
The Path of Love at Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace is famous for its historical significance and supposed influence on the fate of couples who walk its length.
Despite the path’s undeniable charm and the allure of its picturesque surroundings, a superstition casts a shadow over it, suggesting that couples who stroll down this route are destined to part ways.
The origin of this belief is deeply rooted in the palace’s past, specifically its association with divorce proceedings. In days gone by, couples wishing to dissolve their marriages would often find themselves walking this path.
Over time, the journey to and from the courthouse, which starkly contrasts the scenic beauty of the palace, became emblematic of separation and the dissolution of romantic ties.
The Omen of Crows
In Korea, the early morning sighting of a crow is often met with a sense of foreboding. These birds, with their dark plumage and haunting calls, are considered omens of bad luck, mainly if encountered at the start of one’s day.
This superstition reflects a broader cultural ambivalence towards crows, which are seen in some contexts as bearers of misfortune, while in others, they are respected as mighty messengers.
This dichotomy in the perception of crows is significantly pronounced when comparing mainstream Korean beliefs to those of Korean Shamanism.
On Jeju Island, for instance, crows are enveloped in a more complex and nuanced symbolic framework. Here, they are not merely seen as harbingers of bad luck but are also revered for their intelligence and considered messengers between the worlds of the living and the dead.
The Blind Butterfly
Imagine a sunny day, butterflies flitting through the air. In Korea, an old saying might make you think twice before reaching out to catch one.
People say if you touch a butterfly or moth and then rub your eyes, you might go blind. It has yet to be discovered exactly how this idea started.
It could be because insects carry dirt or germs, and touching your eyes is generally bad. Or it’s a way to teach kids to be gentle with nature. Butterflies are beautiful to look at but can be delicate.
The advice might be to respect all creatures and remember that our actions can affect the world. It’s a reminder that nature is full of mysteries and should be handled carefully.
Birthday Seaweed Soup
In Korea, everyone eats a particular dish on their birthday: seaweed soup.
It’s more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that ties together generations.
This soup isn’t only tasty and full of good stuff for your body but also symbolizes good luck and long life.
The tradition starts from the very beginning.
Pregnant women are told about the benefits of seaweed, and after a baby is born, this soup is a staple. Then, people have this soup every year on their birthday, celebrating another year of life.
It’s a way of saying thank you for your health and asking for another year of well-being. Eating this soup is like a yearly reminder of where we come from and our wishes for the future.
Dreaming of Babies: Taemong
Dreams hold special meaning in Korea, especially when they involve babies.
These dreams, known as taemong, are believed to hint at future pregnancies in the family.
If you dream of strong animals like tigers or dragons or maybe a fruit with a seed inside, it’s said a boy is on the way.
If your dream is about gentler things, like birds, snakes, rings, or flowers, it might mean a girl is coming.
These dreams are a big deal, showing the importance of family and the excitement of welcoming new members. It’s a way of connecting with the future, imagining the new personalities and stories that will join the family.
In Korea, sharing these dreams is a moment of joy, full of hope and guessing about who the new baby will be.
The Auspicious Nature of Poo Poo Dreams
In South Korea, poop isn’t something to wrinkle your nose at; it’s a symbol that might just bring you a stroke of good luck! Sounds surprising, doesn’t it?
Well, in a country where you can find cafes decorated with all things poop and even enjoy pastries shaped like it, this fascination goes beyond simple amusement.
Yes, dreaming about poop in Korea is like stumbling upon a four-leaf clover.
Now, why is poop seen through such rose-colored glasses? It’s not just a quirky part of modern culture; it has deep historical roots. Long ago, Koreans found uses for poop that went beyond fertilizing crops.
Baby poop, believe it or not, was once considered a remedy for specific ailments. It was part of the circle of life, where even waste had its worth and place.
So, when you drift off to sleep and find yourself dreaming of poop, you’re tapping into an ancient belief of prosperity and good fortune.
The Reserved Joy of Pregnancy
In many cultures, pregnancy is a time of anticipation and celebration, often marked by rituals like baby showers.
However, there are superstitions in Korea that preparing too much or celebrating early might bring bad luck or even harm to the unborn child.
Typically, only after a child reaches the milestone of 100 days will the parents hold a ‘dol’ ceremony, inviting loved ones to meet and celebrate the baby officially.
This tradition underscores the value placed on life and the joy of surviving the precarious early months of infancy.
Leaving Behind a Trace of the Past
When you move out of a place in Korea, there’s a unique tradition that might seem odd at first.
Instead of cleaning up everything perfectly, people often leave the place slightly messy. It is about something other than being lazy or forgetful.
There’s a deeper reason behind it.
Koreans believe that every home has its spirits or energies. Not cleaning up as thoroughly as you should ensure these spirits stay where they are rather than following you to your new home. It’s like saying, “This was my place, but now it’s yours. I’m moving on, but everything here stays as it is.” This way, when you start a new chapter, you’re not bringing any unwanted spiritual guests.
Imagine living in a house for years. You laugh, cry, and make memories there. So, when it’s time to go, leaving it exactly as you found it isn’t just about physical things. It’s about respecting the space and the memories.
Why Cleaning Supplies Make the Best Gifts
Now, let’s talk about moving into a new place.
If you’re invited to a housewarming in Korea, you might notice something interesting about the gifts. Instead of decorative items or food, you’ll see many cleaning supplies—detergents, tissue rolls, and kitchen towels. Here’s why: these aren’t just practical gifts. They carry special meanings.
Detergents make bubbles, right? In Korea, these bubbles symbolize something beautiful—prosperity and wealth that grows and overflows.
It’s a way of wishing the new homeowners an abundant life.
And what about those long rolls of tissue and towels? They’re not just practical. They symbolize a wish for a long, prosperous life that unfolds smoothly, just like the roll itself.
Giving these items as gifts is a thoughtful gesture. It’s like saying, “I hope your new home is not only clean and bright but also filled with happiness and good fortune that keeps growing.”
It’s a beautiful mix of practicality and wishing the best for someone’s future. When someone moves into a new place, these gifts help them start on the right foot by keeping their home clean and inviting good vibes.
The Cow Transformation Warning
Imagine eating a big meal and immediately lying down, only to be told, “Be careful, or you’ll turn into a cow!” It’s a playful yet insightful warning in Korea, pointing to the importance of giving your stomach a break after meals.
It’s not literally about becoming a cow, of course.
Instead, this saying is a fun way of reminding everyone to take it easy on their digestive systems.
After eating, your body needs time to process and digest the food. If you lie down too soon, digestion is believed to occur less smoothly, which could lead to feeling bloated or uncomfortable—much like a cow spending its day lazily grazing and digesting.
This advice is part of a bigger picture in Korea, where health and wellness are taken seriously.
People are encouraged to adopt habits that prevent discomfort and maintain good health, using vivid imagery like the cow transformation to make these lessons memorable and effective.
The Dream of Falling Teeth
Losing teeth in a dream can be unsettling, and in Korea, it’s thought to warn of potential loss in your life, such as losing money or facing health issues.
But instead of worrying too much about the dream, the focus shifts to a practical and positive action: taking good care of your teeth.
Brushing your teeth thoroughly after meals is a way to prevent dental problems and keep bad luck at bay. This belief perfectly exemplifies how Korean superstitions often tie physical well-being to broader aspects of life, including fortune.
The idea here is simple but powerful: taking care of your body can help you avoid problems in other areas of your life.
It’s about more than just dental health; it’s a reminder of the everyday actions we can take to improve our overall situation. This superstition reinforces the value of routine and personal care, suggesting that our health can reflect and influence our lives.
Good Food Equals Beautiful Offspring
The art of food presentation in Korea goes beyond mere aesthetics; it harbors a belief tied deeply to creating a family.
According to a charming superstition, how a mother consumes her kimbap—the Korean roll of rice and fillings wrapped in seaweed—can influence the physical attractiveness of her future children.
Those who favor the center slices, typically more neatly presented and organized, are said to be blessed with good-looking offspring while indulging in the less appealing ends might not bode well for the children’s beauty.
This superstition extends to the overall presentation of food, suggesting a correlation between culinary beauty and the physical allure of one’s descendants.
It’s a whimsical reminder of the importance of aesthetics in Korean culture, even in the context of family and childbirth.
The Significance of Moving Days
In Korea, moving homes is not just a logistical challenge; it’s a decision steeped in the search for auspicious timing.
The choice of a moving day, often determined by the lunar calendar, can have profound implications for the household’s future happiness and prosperity.
Moving companies, recognizing the cultural importance of this superstition, frequently advise on lucky and unlucky dates.
The belief holds that relocating on an auspicious day wards off evil spirits and ensures a smooth transition to new beginnings.
In contrast, an inauspicious day could invite misfortune and unwelcome spiritual entities.
This practice underscores the Korean penchant for harmonizing life’s major decisions with the natural world’s rhythms and celestial cycles.
The Knife Gift Taboo
While universally recognized as a gesture of goodwill, the act of giving carries specific caveats in Korean culture, especially regarding the nature of the gift.
Knives or sharp objects are considered ill-suited as gifts.
This superstition, shared by various cultures around the globe, is rooted in the symbolic act of cutting—the fear that such a gift could sever the bonds of friendship or familial ties.
Korean Good Luck Charms
Pursuing good fortune and warding off misfortune is universal, with each culture boasting unique luck symbols.
Traditional charms and talismans in Korea attract positive vibes and repel negative ones.
The Pujok, a yellow paper adorned with specific symbols and patterns, exemplifies this practice.
Placed in homes, cars, or workplaces, the Pujok is a testament to the enduring Korean belief in the power of symbols to influence the spiritual and physical realms, offering protection and prosperity to those who possess them.
The Power of Lucky Numbers
In contrast to the foreboding associated with the number four, specific numbers sparkle with positive connotations in Korean culture.
Numbers like 8, 9, and 3 are embraced as bringers of luck and prosperity.
This belief mirrors the broader Asian cultural context, where numerology is crucial in determining auspiciousness.
Whether choosing dates, apartment numbers, or celebrating milestones, these lucky numbers are sought after for their promise of good fortune and happiness, illustrating the deep-rooted human desire to align with forces of luck and destiny.
Conclusion
Korean superstitions are rich with symbolism and steeped in tradition.
They offer a fascinating glimpse into their society’s values, fears, and hopes.
As we explore these beliefs, we gain a deeper appreciation for how cultural heritage shapes and enriches the Korean way of life.
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