Hello, everyone! Today we'd like to introduce the traditional Korean baby shower, Doljanchi, for our international readers who may not be familiar with Korean culture. In Korea, Doljan is a special event to celebrate a baby's milestone, where family and friends gather to wish the baby good health and longevity.
The Meaning and History of Doljanchi
In Korea, infant mortality rates have been high in the past, so it's considered a blessing for a baby to reach their first birthday safely. Therefore, doljangjan is a way to wish and celebrate a baby's healthy growth. It is a traditional event that brings family and friends together to celebrate a baby's first birthday in a special way.
Doljanchi's main event: Doljabee
The centerpiece of the celebration is the "Doljabee". It's a game where you place a number of objects in front of your baby and try to predict your baby's future through the objects they choose. Typical objects include a thread (longevity), a book (learning), money (wealth), a paintbrush (knowledge), and a stethoscope (doctor). Depending on which object the baby grabs, it's fun to predict their future occupation or disposition.
Dolsang: a traditional decorative table
At a baby shower, a special table called a dolsang is set up. It's beautifully decorated with a variety of fruits, rice cakes, and foods to wish the baby good health and happiness. The dolsang usually includes white rice cakes, red bean cakes, fruits, and Korean sweets, and nowadays, modern cakes are often served as well.
Costumes for the Doljanchi
Babies and parents wear traditional hanbok at the Doljanchi.
Babies wear special hanbok, called dolbok, and parents wear hanbok as well, and they take pictures together to commemorate the occasion. This adds to the traditional atmosphere and emphasizes the specialness of the ceremony.
Photo tables and goodie boxes
In the Doljabee event space, we decorate a photo table, several standing photos, and give gifts to guests who guess what they catch. It's been a long time since I remember what my baby caught, but I do have fond memories of the careful preparation. We celebrate our baby's first birthday by decorating with traditional Korean props and decorating the props ourselves. We also prepare gifts for guests who come to celebrate our child's birthday to show our gratitude.
A baby shower, Doljanchi is a beautiful and meaningful occasion to celebrate a child's first birthday. This special day is unforgettable for all involved, as family and friends come together to celebrate and wish the child health and happiness.
So, did you understand a little bit about the Korean Doljanchi?
Thank you for your interest in Korean culture!
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