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Traditional Korean Games of Lunar New Year : Preserving Heritage Through Play (Inspired by Squid Game 2)
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Traditional Korean Games of Lunar New Year
Preserving Heritage Through Play (Inspired by Squid Game 2)
The hit Netflix series Squid Game 2 has once again turned the spotlight onto Korea's rich cultural traditions, sparking global curiosity about traditional Korean games.
While the show’s portrayal of these games is often high-stakes and dramatic, their real-life origins are deeply rooted in history, community, and spirituality.
As Lunar New Year approaches, South Korea comes alive with festivals and events centered on these cherished pastimes, ensuring the legacy of Korea's cultural heritage continues to thrive.
From the strategic throws of Yutnori to the soaring heights of kite flying and the rhythmic kicks of Jegichagi, these traditional games offer not only entertainment but also a window into the values and beliefs of ancient Korean society.
Let’s delve deeper into the fascinating stories behind these games and their enduring relevance.
1. Yutnori : A Game of Fortune and Unity
Yutnori is far more than a board game; it is a cultural emblem that once served as the centerpiece of village festivals.
Originating from ancient rituals, Yutnori was believed to predict the year’s fortune.
The game involves four wooden sticks (yut) that are thrown into the air, with their landing positions determining the movement of tokens on the board.
Historically, this simple act of tossing sticks carried profound meaning.
In rural communities, Yutnori was often played during the Lunar New Year as part of a ritualistic practice to secure good fortune and a bountiful harvest.
In certain regions of Gyeonggi Province, the game was intertwined with superstitions.
For instance, the residents of Pocheon believed that playing Yutnori on "Ghost Day" (the 16th day of the Lunar New Year) symbolically “smashed the heads of ghosts,” warding off misfortune.
Today, Yutnori remains a family favorite during the holidays, bringing generations together around a game that combines strategy, luck, and tradition.
Its popularity has even transcended borders, thanks to its portrayal in Squid Game 2, where it captured the imagination of international audiences.
2. Kite Flying : Sending Misfortune into the Skies
Kite flying, a beloved pastime during Lunar New Year, holds a special place in Korean culture as a symbolic ritual to ward off bad luck.
Its origins date back to the Silla Dynasty, when General Kim Yushin famously launched a flaming kite into the sky during a rebellion.
The sight of the burning kite was interpreted as a divine omen, calming public fears and restoring order.
This tradition evolved into a more personal ritual during the Lunar New Year.
Families would inscribe the Chinese character for "misfortune" (厄) on their kites, along with their names and birthdates.
As the kites soared high into the sky, they carried away the burdens of the past year.
Cutting the string symbolized releasing those troubles, allowing them to drift away with the wind.
In modern times, kite flying continues to be a cherished activity, especially during the Lunar New Year.
Parks and open fields across Korea are dotted with vibrant kites of various designs, creating a picturesque celebration of renewal and hope.
3. Jegichagi : A Timeless Test of Agility
A game of coordination and stamina, Jegichagi is Korea's answer to hacky sack.
Played either solo or in groups, the game involves kicking a jegi—a weighted object made of paper, fabric, or plastic—to keep it airborne for as long as possible.
While Jegichagi may seem like a simple game, its history is rich with cultural significance.
In Yangju, a city in Gyeonggi Province, Lunar New Year celebrations often featured a communal version of the game called “Let’s Kick Jegi Around the Village.”
This playful activity fostered community bonds and added a lively, festive atmosphere to the holidays.
In recent years, Jegichagi has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to its appearance in Squid Game 2.
The show introduced the game to global audiences, sparking a newfound appreciation for this traditional pastime.
Families and friends now gather to test their skills, laughing and cheering as they try to keep the jegi from touching the ground.
As the Lunar New Year approaches, these traditional games serve as a reminder of Korea's rich cultural tapestry.
They connect the past with the present, offering a unique way to celebrate the holiday while preserving the values of unity, resilience, and hope.
This year, why not revisit these games with your loved ones?
Whether you’re strategizing over a game of Yutnori, sending your worries skyward with a kite, or challenging each other to a lively round of Jegichagi, these activities are sure to bring joy and meaning to your holiday celebrations.
Through these games, Korea’s cultural heritage lives on—not just in festivals and families, but also on the global stage, as audiences around the world discover the beauty of these timeless traditions.
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