THE KOREAN PEOPLE’S DOLJANCHI CEREMONY AND ITS TRANSFORMATION

Аннотация

The Korean people are one of the nations rich in ancient traditions. In their lives, the birth of a child, especially the first birthday — the “Doljanchi” (돌잔치) ceremony — holds a special place. This ceremony is celebrated when the baby turns one year old. Historically, due to high infant mortality rates, it emerged as a way to celebrate the survival of a child who had lived to their first birthday. Over time, this tradition has evolved beyond purely religious and cultural meanings to become a complex cultural phenomenon encompassing various social, economic, and even commercial factors. This article analyzes the origins, key elements, and recent changes of the Doljanchi ceremony. It also examines the similarities and differences between this first birthday celebration and those in other countries. The study reveals how the ceremony has transformed in contemporary society.