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1. Introduction to the 24 Solar Terms (절기)
Korea’s traditional calendar is
deeply influenced by the 24 solar terms (절기),
which divide the year into 24 distinct periods
based on the sun’s movement.
These solar terms were originally developed
in China but have played a crucial role in
Korean agriculture, customs, and seasonal traditions.
2. The 24 Solar Terms and Their Meanings
The 24 solar terms are divided into six main categories,
each containing four specific terms.
2.1. Spring (봄)
Spring marks the beginning of the agricultural cycle and is a time of renewal.
- 立春 (Ipchun, Beginning of Spring)
The start of spring, symbolizing new growth. - 雨水 (Usu, Rain Water)
A period when snow melts and rain begins to fall. - 驚蟄 (Gyeongchip, Awakening of Insects)
Insects emerge from hibernation as temperatures rise. - 春分 (Chunbun, Spring Equinox)
Day and night become equal in length.
2.2. Summer (여름)
Summer is a season of growth and high temperatures,
critical for farming.
- 清明 (Cheongmyeong, Clear and Bright)
A time of fresh air and bright skies. - 穀雨 (Gogu, Grain Rain)
Rainfall supports the growth of crops. - 立夏 (Ipha, Beginning of Summer)
Marks the official start of summer. - 小滿 (Soman, Small Fullness)
Crops begin to mature, showing signs of ripening.
2.3. Autumn (가을)
Autumn is associated with harvest and cooling temperatures.
- 立秋 (Ipchu, Beginning of Autumn)
The first sign of autumn's arrival. - 處暑 (Cheoseo, Limit of Heat)
The summer heat starts to fade. - 白露 (Baekno, White Dew)
Dew begins to form as temperatures drop. - 秋分 (Chubun, Autumn Equinox)
Day and night are of equal length.
2.4. Winter (겨울)
Winter is a season of rest and preparation
for the next agricultural cycle.
- 立冬 (Ipdong, Beginning of Winter)
Marks the start of cold weather. - 小雪 (Soseol, Light Snow)
The first light snowfall occurs. - 大雪 (Daeseol, Heavy Snow)
Heavy snowfall begins, signaling deep winter. - 冬至 (Dongji, Winter Solstice)
The longest night and shortest day of the year.
3. Significance of the 24 Solar Terms in Korea
The 24 solar terms are not just calendar markers
but are deeply connected to agriculture,
daily life, and seasonal customs in Korea.
3.1. Agricultural Importance
Korean farmers have relied on the solar terms to
determine the best times for planting, harvesting,
and preparing crops.
For example:
- Gogu (Grain Rain) is the ideal time for rice planting.
- Ipchu (Beginning of Autumn) signals the harvest period.
3.2. Seasonal Festivals and Customs
Many Korean traditions and holidays
align with the solar terms.
- Ipchun (Beginning of Spring)
People paste "Ipchun-daegil (입춘대길)"
on doors for good fortune. - Dongji (Winter Solstice)
Families eat red bean porridge (팥죽)
to ward off evil spirits.
3.3. Food and Seasonal Eating Habits
Each solar term is associated with specific foods
meant to boost health and balance the body.
- Chunbun (Spring Equinox)
Consuming fresh greens to revitalize energy. - Daeseol (Heavy Snow)
Eating warm foods like tteokguk (떡국)
to stay strong in the cold.
4. Modern Relevance of the 24 Solar Terms
Although modern technology
has reduced reliance on the solar calendar,
the 24 solar terms still influence Korean culture.
Many Koreans follow seasonal eating habits,
traditional customs,
and even Korean medicine practices
based on these time periods.
The 24 solar terms (절기) are an essential part of
Korean history, agriculture, and culture.
Understanding these terms provides
deeper insight into Korea’s traditional way of life,
seasonal customs, and cultural heritage.
Even today, the wisdom of these ancient time markers
continues to shape Korean traditions and modern lifestyles.