Social work sophomore Mia Siler performs a traditional Korean dance during the Korean Culture Association’s Seollal on Feb. 9 at the University Center. There were six performances.
The Korean Culture Association showcased traditional festivities for Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, by transforming the University Center’s Rio Grande Ballroom.
The Sunday event had games based on the Netflix original series “Squid Game,” local vendors, dance performances and traditional food including sweet pancakes known as hotteok and kimchi fried rice.
As they dined, attendees learned about other opportunities to explore Korean culture, like studying abroad or earning a minor in Korean.
Students wait for the Kahoot answer to be revealed during the Korean Culture Association’s Seollal on Feb. 9 at the University Center. Students were quizzed on Korean traditions and culture.
This year, Korea celebrated Seollal on Jan. 29, beginning the Year of the Snake. Similar to the Chinese Lunar New Year, the holiday uses the lunar calendar, but Seollal has its own distinct traditions, some of the most celebrated in Korea. Typically, the holiday lasts three days, each spent cherishing family and celebrating ancestors.
Sok Ju Kim, modern languages associate professor of instruction and KCA adviser, said the snake is a symbol of intelligence. Kim presented on Korean history and culture, teaching attendees Korean phrases used during the holiday.
The event also hosted local vendors promoting Asian businesses, including Little Seoul, Kyono Studios and Namoo Korean Bowl.
A student looks through merchandise from nursing senior Priscilla Tran during the Korean Culture Association’s Seollal on Feb. 9 at the University Center. Tran’s PoggyWoggy shop was one of nine vendors and sponsors.
Mariel Lowry, Borahae Magic Shop owner, said she was immersed in Korean culture growing up and it inspired her and Stephanie Soto, a longtime K-pop fan, to open up their shop.
Based in Fort Worth, Lowry and Soto began selling K-pop-themed bracelets to connect with other fans and share their craft.
“We wanted to share it with everyone and reconnect with everyone within this community because it’s so fun and it’s so fun to share this joy,” Lowry said.