Today, the little man turns one. While we had initially wanted to be there with him to celebrate, it was not to be. Hopefully, that just means that there will be plenty of others to celebrate with him.
In Korea, a child’s first birthday is a big event. They typically have a dol, which is described below, and the child is dressed in a Hanbok, traditional Korean gear.
The highlight of the dol is a ritual where the child is placed in front of a table of foods and objects such as string, books, brushes, ink and money. The child is then urged to pick up an object from the table. It is believed the one selected will foretell the child’s future. For example, if the child picks up a brush or book, he is destined to be a scholar. If he picks up money or rice, he will be wealthy; cakes or other food, a government official; a sword or bow, a military commander. If the child picks up the thread, it is believed he will live a long life. The types of objects placed on the table for the baby to choose has evolved over time, as a reflection of society’s evolving perception of successful occupations. Some parents place a computer mouse on the table, which signifies success in the high-tech field, or a toothbrush, hoping that the baby will be a dentist. However, many parents remain more traditional in their selection of objects to place on the table. This is followed by feasting, singing and playing with the toddler. Most often, guests will present gifts of money, clothes, or gold rings to the parents for the child at this time.
Hopefully, his day was special. My birthday wish is that he is completely healthy so that we can get him home as soon as possible.
