Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say Happy Korean New Year! Known as “Seollal” or “Lunar New Year,” this festive occasion holds immense cultural significance in Korea. Whether you’re looking to greet someone formally or informally, we’ve got you covered with various expressions, tips, and examples. So, let’s dive in and explore the ways to wish a Happy Korean New Year!
Table of Contents
Formal Greetings
When expressing your wishes formally, it’s important to use the appropriate level of politeness. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae bok mani baduseyo)
Translating to “May you receive many blessings in the new year,” this is a classic and widely used phrase during Korean New Year. It conveys a warm wish for a prosperous year ahead.
2. 올해도 건강과 행운이 가득하기를 바래요 (Olhaedo geongangwa haengun-i gadeukhagireul barae-yo)
Meaning “I hope this year is filled with good health and luck,” this expression emphasizes the importance of well-being and fortunate experiences throughout the new year.
Informal Greetings
When greeting family members, close friends, or those younger than you, it’s common to use more informal expressions. Here are a few options:
1. 행복한 설날 보내세요 (Haengbokhan seollal bonaeseyo)
Translating to “Have a joyful Lunar New Year,” this friendly expression is perfect for wishing happiness and excitement during the celebrations.
2. 즐거운 설날 되세요 (Jeulgeoun seollal doeseyo)
This phrase simply means “Have a pleasant Lunar New Year.” It’s a casual way to extend your heartfelt wishes to friends and family.
Tips for Greeting
1. Use Appropriate Bowing
In Korean culture, bowing is an essential part of greeting during the New Year. When offering your wishes, remember to bow slightly as a sign of respect. The depth of the bow can vary based on the age and relationship with the person you’re greeting.
2. Incorporate Traditional Customs
Aside from verbal greetings, it’s also customary to exchange small gifts during Seollal. Traditional items like “sebaetdon” (New Year’s money) and “sebaetjigi” (small ritual objects) are given to convey well-wishes and blessings.
3. Express Gratitude
When someone extends New Year wishes to you, it’s polite to express your gratitude. You can respond by saying “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida), which means “thank you,” to show your appreciation.
Examples for Different Situations
1. Greeting a Colleague
Formal: “새해 복 많이 받으세요. 업무에서 큰 성과를 이루시길 바랍니다.” (Saehae bok mani baduseyo. Eopmueseo keun seonggwareul irusigil barabnida.)
Translation: “May you receive many blessings in the new year. I hope you achieve great success in your work.”
2. Greeting a Family Member
Informal: “행복한 설날 보내. 건강하고 항상 웃음 가득하길 바래.” (Haengbokhan seollal bonae. Geonganghago hangsang useum gadeukhagireul barae.)
Translation: “Have a joyful Lunar New Year. I wish you good health and a life filled with laughter.”
3. Greeting a Friend
Informal: “즐거운 설날 되. 먹고 놀면서 편안한 휴식을 즐기길 바래!” (Jeulgeoun seollal doe. Meokgo nolmyeonseo pyeonanhan hyusigeul jeulgigil barae!)
Translation: “Have a pleasant Lunar New Year. I hope you enjoy a comfortable break while eating and having fun!”
Remember, these phrases and examples are just a starting point. You can personalize your greetings by incorporating the recipient’s name or adding blessings specific to their wishes. Seollal is a time of celebration and connection, so embrace the opportunity to share warmth and happiness with those around you. Happy Korean New Year!
