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Korean Cultural Center in Egypt Celebrates Lunar New Year with ASU Students


Wed 07 Feb 2024 | 11:37 AM
Korean Cultural Center in Egypt Celebrates Lunar New Year with ASU Students
Korean Cultural Center in Egypt Celebrates Lunar New Year with ASU Students
Rana Atef

The Korean National Center continued its annual tradition of celebrating the Lunar New Year (Seollal) with the students of Korean language and culture at Ain Shams University (ASU).

The Director of the Korean Cultural Center in Egypt Oh Sungho said that the atmosphere of the celebrations is family-oriented like the Egyptian celebrations.

He expressed that among the celebrations of the Lunar New Year is eating "Tteokguk" which is a bowl of rice cakes in broth, and wearing the "Hanbok" which is traditional Korean attire for "Seollal." 

Family members used to gather in their hometowns to present their greetings and wishes for grandparents, and visit the loved ones who left the world. In addition, children are pleased when they receive "Bokjumeoni" (money in silk pouches to represent good luck).

Regarding the center's activities, participating students enjoy experiencing the "Hanbok," playing some traditional Korean games like Yut Nori, writing happy new wishes in Korean, and tasting traditional Korean food like "Tteokguk."

The celebrations of "Seollal" are part of the "Ahlan Korea" (Welcome Korea) initiative to introduce the Egyptians to the cultural aspects of Korea, including monthly initiatives.

It is worth mentioning that this year's Lunar New Year marks this year the year of Blue Dragon. The celebrations of the "Seollal" will begin on February 10, and last for three days.

According to Korean mythology, the Blue Dragon is characterized by strength, wisdom, and protection.