Birthdays in Korea
Birthdays are a big part of Korean Culture. One interesting fact about birthdays in Korea is when you are born, you are considered 1 year old. Also, at a babys' 1st birthday (2 years in Korea) it is requires a big celebration because back then it was lucky if a baby lived to one. The celebration is called Doljanchi, and the baby wears the tradition Korean outfit called a hanbok. Babies are given a choice to pick an item, which is a prediction of their future or so they say. For example, money means wealth, food means won't be hungry, thread means that they will have a long life, brush or book means smart, and etc.
Taking off Shoes in Korean Homes
It does comes across people like in America to take off their shoes when entering a house, but in Korea it is a requirement to take off shoes went entering a house or a traditional restaurant. It is respectful of others as it keeps a clean environment, provides a more sanitary living space, it is a cultures tradition, and is more comfortable than being trapped in hot and sweaty shoes. So when visiting Korea remember to take off your shoes and remember what shoes you wore that day.