Seoul Ushers in the Year of the Blue Dragon
As the clock struck midnight on January 1st, 2024, the historic Bosingak bell in Seoul's Jongno District heralded the start of the Year of the Blue Dragon, a symbol of hope and strength in Korean culture. Despite the cold, an estimated 100,000 people (police estimate) gathered around Bosingak and Sejongno to witness this momentous event.
Bosingak Bell-Ringing Ceremony
Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, along with the oldest participant of the 2024 College Scholastic Ability Test, Kim Jung-ja, and other citizen representatives, rang the bell 33 times. The sound echoed through the city, eliciting cheers from the crowd. People, huddled in heavy coats and furry hats, captured these moments with family, friends, and loved ones, sharing their hopes and dreams for the new year.The event was marked by the presence of hopeful citizens from various parts of Seoul. A resident expressed their wish for family health and business prosperity in the new year. Another attendee shared aspirations for their children's uninterrupted educational journey.
Amidst the crowd, young individuals, including an aspiring actor and a budding YouTuber, shared their personal dreams of success and breakthroughs in their respective fields, reflecting the diverse hopes and ambitions that resonate with the dawn of 2024, the Year of the Blue Dragon.
Accompanying the traditional bell-ringing was the illumination of 'Midnight Sun,' a 12-meter-diameter solar installation. The structure's 200 LED lights shone brightly, complemented by the launch of 1,000 fireworks, symbolizing a bright and hopeful start to the new year.
Accompanying the traditional bell-ringing was the illumination of 'Midnight Sun,' a 12-meter-diameter solar installation. The structure's 200 LED lights shone brightly, complemented by the launch of 1,000 fireworks, symbolizing a bright and hopeful start to the new year.
2024: The Year of the Blue Dragon
2024, marked as the Year of the Blue Dragon in the Korean zodiac, symbolizes power, wisdom, and prosperity. The dragon, revered in Korean mythology as a divine creature controlling weather and water, holds a place of honor in Korean culture.This year is expected to bring hope, strength, and prosperity, reflecting the dragon's auspicious symbolism.
As the world steps into this powerful year, South Korea's vibrant traditions and rich cultural tapestry continue to resonate with both locals and visitors alike, making it a unique destination to experience the fusion of ancient traditions and modernity.
As the world steps into this powerful year, South Korea's vibrant traditions and rich cultural tapestry continue to resonate with both locals and visitors alike, making it a unique destination to experience the fusion of ancient traditions and modernity.