New Year’s Bow

As an adoptee, I really love learning about all the different customs and traditions in Korean culture. 세배 (se-bae) is the special bowing at New Year to show respect and wish older family members a happy new year. Customarily, the phrase 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (sae-hae bok man-hi bad-eu-se-yo) is used to wish a Happy New Year. You might also receive 세뱃돈 (se-baet-don) or sebae money afterward.
The 절 (jeol) or bow of 세배 (se-bae) actually seems a little complicated and there are traditionally different ways to do it depending on gender. And, I thought this would be a really fun way to practice sequence and counting.
- Download and print the pages. (These fit best on letter-sized paper – 8.5×11″ and “print to fit” if possible.)
- Color the activity sheet.
- Cut out the rectangles. (Scissors should always be used with adult supervision!)
- Have your little one read the numbers or count the dots to put them in order.
- Be sure to share your work and tag @tigerboomcreative on social.
Download the Printables
8.5 x 11″ Letter Paper
How do you celebrate Seollal? I love hearing about every family’s different traditions. I hope you enjoy this activity. Thanks for reading. – Katie