New Year in North Korea

History and Traditions

New Year's Day, known as "Seollal," is one of the most significant traditional holidays in North Korea, celebrated on January 1st. The day marks the beginning of the new year by the Gregorian calendar, but North Koreans also observe the Lunar New Year, which tends to be more culturally significant with deeper traditional practices.

Traditionally, New Year celebrations are family-centered and involve honoring ancestors. One of the customs includes paying respect to ancestors through a ritual called 'charye.' The holiday period is also a time for people to wear traditional clothing called 'hanbok' and perform folk games.

Modern Celebrations

In contemporary North Korea, New Year's Day is marked by state-organized events and festivities. The day usually begins with a national address by the country's leader. This speech is an important political event where past achievements are highlighted, and future goals are outlined.

Public Observances:

• Mass Dances: People participate in organized dances which are held in public squares.
• Fireworks Display: Pyongyang often hosts a grand fireworks display to celebrate.
• Visits to Landmarks: Citizens may visit statues and monuments, particularly those of former leaders Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, to show respect.
• Cultural Performances: State-sponsored cultural events such as concerts or theater shows may take place.

Personal Celebrations:

• Families gather for special meals that might include traditional Korean dishes such as 'tteokguk' (rice cake soup) which symbolizes gaining a year in age and good luck.
• People exchange gifts, with children often receiving money from elders.
• It's also common for people to watch or listen to special New Year programming on state-run media.

Restrictions

North Korea has strict controls over cultural expressions and celebrations. Public festivities are carefully choreographed by the state, leaving little room for spontaneous public gatherings or celebrations that have not been sanctioned by government authorities.