This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at one of the Lunar New Year observances associated with the annual Jeju Fire Festival, which runs from March 7th through the 10th at Saebyeol Oreum.

There are a great many observances and traditions which are celebrated all across Korea. Given the nation’s long history, it’s not surprising that many localities have developed their own versions of these traditions.

[Slug CG] ‘Great Full Moon Day’: first full moon on lunar calendar

Jeongwol Daeboreum, or Great Full Moon Day, is the first full moon in the lunar calendar ? February 19th on the 2019 solar calendar. It’s connected with the very popular Jeju Fire Festival at Saebyeol Oreum southwest of Jeju City.

Jeongwol Daeboreum has traditionally had a number of important associations for farmers and villagers, particularly in predicting good fortune and abundant crops for the New Year.

[Slug CG] ‘Burning the moon house’ ritual to predict good fortune

One such ritual in the Jeju Fire Festival is called Daljip Taeugi, or “burning the moon house.”

According to the Encyclopedia of Korean Seasonal Customs, young villagers would build a house on a hill using straw, pine needles, and tree branches. They would then set it on fire. Based on the direction the structure collapsed, they would make predictions about good or bad fortune for the year.

[Slug CG] Farmers would burn pastures to rid them of old pests, old grass

The Jeju Fire Festival also holds reenactments of the very important seasonal tradition of “bangae.” This is where farmers would burn their pastures to rid the land of pests and old grass in advance of spring.

[Slug CG] Todd Thacker

More generally, though, this was a time to celebrate community. The people would come together to enjoy good food, listen to music performed by the farmers themselves, and compete in village tug-of-wars.

In advance of the tough farming season ahead, building a sense of unity was essential for the well-being of all. This year’s festival is scheduled for March 7th to the 10th.

Todd Thacker KCTV