Cheongdo Jeongwol Daeboreum Folk Festival
The Cheongdo Jeongwol Daeboreum Folk Festival is a celebration of the first full moon of the lunar new year, a day known as Jeongwol Daeboreum in Korea. This unique cultural event will take place on February 12, 2025, in Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do.
A Tradition Rooted in Lunar Observation
Traditionally, when the full moon of Jeongwol Daeboreum rises in the east, people climb nearby hills to greet it. Despite the midwinter cold, they ascend with torches, striving to be the first to see the moon. Upon its appearance, they plant their torches, join their hands in prayer, and make wishes. Farmers traditionally pray for a bountiful harvest, scholars for success in state examinations, and unmarried men and women for marriage. The belief persists that these wishes, made under the first full moon, will be granted.
The act of seeing the Daeboreum moon before others is considered particularly auspicious, prompting a rush to the mountains. Following the moon sighting, people traditionally attempt to predict the year’s harvest based on the moon’s appearance. A white hue to the moonlight suggests ample rain, while a red hue indicates a potential drought. Bright moonlight is interpreted as a sign of a good harvest, whereas dim moonlight foretells a poor one. Furthermore, if the moon appears to lean south, it signifies a good harvest on the coast; if it leans north, a good harvest in the mountain villages is anticipated.
The Daljip Taeugi: A Fiery Spectacle
This seasonal custom continues to this day. Every year, the Daljip Taeugi (Burning of the Moon House) event is reenacted on the banks of the Cheongdo River, symbolizing prayers for the peace and well-being of the region. This powerful pillar of fire, set against the backdrop of the bright full moon, embodies the spirit of Cheongdo. The spectacle is followed by Jwibulnori (fire swinging) and fireworks, fostering the dreams and hopes of farmers and youth for a good harvest. Attendees roast beans over a bonfire, share them, and enjoy each other’s company.
A Festival of Traditional Games and Performances
The festival features a variety of traditional events, including Doju Juldanggigi (tug-of-war), Jegichagi (kick shuttlecock), Tuho (arrow throwing), Neolttwigi (seesaw jumping), and Yutnori (a traditional board game). These activities are believed to drive away bad luck and bring good fortune and a bountiful harvest.
This year, a new riverside Daljip DJ event will be introduced, taking place from 18:30 to 17:00 when the Daljip (Moon House) is ignited. This addition is expected to enhance the festival experience for attendees of all ages.
Event Details
- Doju Juldanggigi: This tug-of-war event features a rope measuring 80 meters in length and involves more than 500 participants.
- Daljip Taeugi: The central event includes a moon greeting ceremony, the ignition of the Daljip at moonrise, and a fireworks display.
- Additional Activities: Attendees can participate in writing wishes, sharing seasonal foods, Tteokmechi (rice cake pounding), and experiencing traditional games.
- Celebration Performance: The festival will feature a performance by singer Shin Seung-tae, as well as a performance by local artist Chasan Nongak, a farmers’ band.
Practical Information
- ποΈ Date: February 12, 2025
- π Address: Cheongdo-gun Farmers’ Association Hall, 166 Hannae-gil, Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- ποΈ Accommodation near the event
- π° Fee: Free
- π Contact: 054-370-6376
- π₯οΈ Homepage: www.cheongdo.go.kr
What is Jeongwol Daeboreum?
Jeongwol Daeboreum, or the Great Full Moon Festival, is a traditional Korean celebration marking the first full moon of the lunar new year. This festival is an integral part of Korean culture, featuring customs and rituals intended to promote good fortune, health, and prosperity for the year ahead. It is a communal event where people engage in activities that symbolize the removal of negative influences and the embrace of positive energy.
A notable custom of Jeongwol Daeboreum is "daljip taeugi," the lighting of bonfires. Large piles of straw or wood are set on fire to represent the burning away of misfortune. Participants often write their wishes on paper and cast them into the flames, hoping for their aspirations to be realized. Another tradition is "bureom," where people crack and eat nuts like walnuts and peanuts, which is believed to strengthen teeth and promote good health.
The festival includes traditional games, music, and dance, contributing to a lively and festive atmosphere. Families and friends gather to enjoy special foods such as "ogokbap," a five-grain rice dish, and "namul," a selection of seasoned vegetables, which are thought to bring balance and harmony. Jeongwol Daeboreum is a celebration of joy and community, offering insight into Korea’s cultural heritage and the lasting importance of lunar traditions.
