Superstitions in Korean culture reveal a captivating blend of history, society, and environment. Passed down through generations, they offer insight into the unique traditions and beliefs that shape this culture. Though not universally followed, these superstitions remain significant in the lives of many Koreans. Let's explore some common ones!
Lucky and Unlucky Numbers
Korea, like many other cultures, has its own set of lucky and unlucky numbers. Number 3, symbolizing life and vitality, is considered lucky. In contrast, the number 4 is deemed unlucky because it sounds similar to the word for death, 'sa‘. This belief manifests in practical ways, such as skipping the fourth floor in buildings and avoiding wedding dates that include the number 4, like the 4th, 14th, or 24th of any month.
Writing Names in Red Ink
In Korean culture, red ink carries strong connotations of death. Writing a person's name in red ink is believed to bring misfortune or even invite death. When someone passes away, their name is often written in red on a memorial wreath or a death certificate to ward off malevolent spirits. This practice extends to talismans and spells, even when they are intended for the living. The exception is the use of red ink for a dojang, a personal stamp traditionally used as a signature substitute.
Sleeping with a Fan on in a Closed Room at Night
One peculiar superstition involves sleeping in a closed room with a fan running, believed by some to lead to death. This belief may be rooted in concerns about air circulation and carbon monoxide poisoning, but it has evolved into a superstition over time.
Pig Dreams
Dream interpretation is a common practice in many cultures, and Korea is no different. Dreaming of a pig is seen as a symbol of good luck in some interpretations. The Korean character for 'money' (don) shares a resemblance with the Chinese character for 'pig‘. Thus, the pig symbolizes good fortune and wealth in Korean superstitions.
Eating Seaweed Soup (Miyeokguk) Before an Exam
Miyeokguk, a traditional Korean seaweed soup typically consumed on birthdays, is believed to be "slippery“, leading to poor test scores if eaten before an exam. On the contrary, consuming tteok (rice cakes) or yeot (traditional confectionery) before an exam is thought to help knowledge "stick" in the student's mind.
While not everyone subscribes to these beliefs, they continue to shape the lives of many Koreans. Understanding these superstitions is not just an intriguing aspect of Korean culture but also an opportunity to appreciate the diverse ways in which people around the world perceive.
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