Happy year of the Blue Dragon!

Happy year of the Blue Dragon! 

The Korean zodiac is a repeating cycle of 12 years, with each year being represented by an animal and its reputed attributes. This is the year of the dragon and more specifically the Blue Dragon. Out of the 12 animals celebrated in the Korean zodiac—the dragon is the only mythical creature, which makes it a year of magic and mystery. Plus it is seen traditionally as a guardian deity.

South Korea (as well as China and Vietnam) celebrate two New Year's. 

One on Jan. 1 and the Lunar New Year celebration, which this year falls on Saturday, February 10. Typical Korean New Year celebrations include the days before and after as well, so this year expect celebrations from Friday, Feb. 9 through Monday the 12th.

For your Korean colleagues (living and working in Korea), you can wish them Happy Lunar New Year later this week by phone, text, or email. 

For expatriate Koreans working outside Korea/ globally, you can wish them a Happy Lunar New Year on the day itself, Saturday, February 10th, or at some time prior on Friday.

Here is the formal greeting.

Sae hae bok mani ba deu say yo.

Did you know that one of the topic many have found interesting in the Korea 101 program we have offered over the 20+ years is how the traditions, norms and custom have influenced the Korean workplace.

We offer both ½ day workshops and well as custom-tailored programs.

Question on this year’s Lunar holiday or the Korean workplace? Just ask.