Today marks the last day of 2024. Doesn’t it feel like time has flown by this year?
For me, 2024 was a year of exciting milestones. I developed the Podo Korean app, launched the Podo Korean website and blog, and even restarted the Podo Korean Instagram. Since I managed everything by myself, it took a lot of time and effort, but I feel incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished. As we step into 2025, I hope to upgrade and improve my Podo Korean projects even further. 😊
In today’s post, I’d like to share a bit about how Koreans commonly greet each other at the end of the year and the start of the new year.
"새해 복 많이 받으세요"
You might have heard this phrase before! It’s a traditional Korean greeting often exchanged during Seollal(설날), the Korean Lunar New Year, when people bow to elders in a ceremony called saebae(새배). However, this greeting isn’t limited to Seollal. It’s also widely used between the end of December and early January.
What Does It Mean?
Breaking it down word by word:
- 새 : new
- 해 : year
- 복 : luck
- 많이 : many
- 받으세요 : receive
So, “새해 복 많이 받으세요” means, “May you receive lots of luck in the new year!”
It’s a heartfelt way of wishing others health, happiness, and success—an integral part of Korean culture’s emphasis on sharing good wishes at the start of a new year.
When and How to Use It
In Korea, it’s common to attend gatherings called 송년회 (year-end parties) or 신년회 (new year parties) with colleagues and friends during this time of year.
- 송년회 : A gathering to reflect on and wrap up the year.
- 신년회 : A gathering to celebrate and welcome the new year.
While these sound formal, they’re often just casual dinners or drinking parties. When meeting or parting at these events, people often say, “새해 복 많이 받으세요” instead of the usual “안녕하세요” (hello) or “안녕히 계세요” (goodbye). This special phrase carries extra warmth and meaning, making it perfect for the occasion.
A Note About Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year usually falls in February, though it can vary. In 2025, Seollal is slightly earlier, on January 29. Around this time, people start using the greeting again, especially during saebae ceremonies with elders.
I’ll write a separate post about Seollal, Korea’s biggest holiday, in the future—stay tuned!
Looking Back and Moving Forward
What memorable moments did you have this year? What are you goals for the next year?
I hope Korean language learning becomes a part of your wonderful memories and aspirations. And I also hope my Podo Korean app can help you along the way.
🎉 Wishing you all lots of luck and happiness in the new year! 새해 복 많이 받으세요! 🎉
