This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at an upcoming traditional lunar calendar observance that is associated with the annual Jeju Fire Festival, a celebration which is normally held in March.

Korean history is long and remarkable. So it’s not surprising that many regions have developed their own unique versions of seasonal observances that coincide with the traditional lunar calendar.

[Slug CG] ‘Great Full Moon Day’ falls on 1st full moon of the lunar calendar

A case in point for Jeju is Jeongwol Daeboreum (정월대보름), or Great Full Moon Day. This observance falls on the first full moon in the lunar calendar (in 2020, that’s this Saturday, Feb. 8). It’s connected with the very popular Jeju Fire Festival, which is normally held in early to mid March 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.

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

One such ritual is called Daljip Taeugi (달집태우기), 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.

More generally, Jeongwol Daeboreum 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 folk games like 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.

[Slug CG] Todd Thacker

You might be wondering how the Jeju Fire Festival is connected to Jeongwol Daeboreum. Well, prior to 2013, this Jeju celebration was held around this time of year and called the Jeongwol Daeboreum Fire Festival. Inclement weather, though, prompted organizers to permanently move the event to March.

One final note, in order to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, organizers have postponed the 2020 Jeju Fire Festival. We’ll have more information for you on KCTV English News as it’s announced.

Todd Thacker KCTV