The 1st Birthday is a milestone in Korean culture. In the past, due to a lack of medical information, Korea's seasonal temperature differences, and many childhood related diseases, the death rate for children was extremely high. Many children died before their first birthday. After the age of one year, the survival rate steeply increased, making this milestone a very happy one for the child's parents.
The traditional celebration had four major components:
1) Praying and giving thanks
2) Making and wearing the birthday clothes
3) Preparing the table and performing the Toljabee
4) Sharing the food with guests and neighbors
Along with food, other items are needed for holding the Toljabee event. Items such as large bundles of thread, a brush, a Korean calligraphy set, pencil, book, money (10,000 won bills), bow and arrow (needle, scissors, and ruler for girls) are arranged on the table to predict the child's future.
I had the distinct pleasure of photographing one of these beautiful celebrations! This family had grandparents from Korea in town for this event. I was thrilled to see the colorful display on the table and the incredible traditional clothing. When they put the birthday boy down, he immediately grabbed the money and put it in his mouth (this signifies wealth). His brother, when he had his first birthday chose the pencil which stands for being a scholar.
Thank you, A and A for teaching me all about this wonderful celebration! I had such a delightful time!
2 comments:
this is so awesome! I especially the photos that you take in people's homes.
I feel like I have gotten to know your subjects when I view one of your slide shows. It must be because you capture them so well.
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