Korean superstitions that people still follow

Okay, so you want to know about Korean superstitions? Honestly, sometimes it feels like we’re more superstitious than logical. It’s a bit embarrassing, but also kind of hilarious, watching people get stressed about seemingly random things. Let’s get into it, I guess.

The Number Four: It’s Just…Bad

Seriously. Don’t like, celebrate your fourth birthday. Don’t give gifts in sets of four. It’s all because the number four (사, sa) sounds like the word for death (sae). It’s a big deal. I once got a gift of four oranges once, and I felt genuinely awkward accepting them.

It’s particularly prevalent in hospitals and older generations, but you’ll see it everywhere. Buildings often skip the fourth floor, and even some apartment complexes will just… not have a fourth floor. It’s a bit much, if I’m being honest.

Shoes Off, Always

This one isn’t strictly a superstition, but it’s deeply ingrained. Taking your shoes off before entering a home is essential. It’s a sign of respect and keeps the outside dirt out – a practical reason, sure, but also a cultural norm steeped in tradition.

You’ll find slippers waiting for you, and it’s rude not to wear them. Hotels are the exception, but even then, it’s considered polite to at least acknowledge the custom. My foreign friends always forget, bless their hearts.

Don’t Write Names

This one’s a bit spooky. Writing someone’s name without permission, especially on paper or anything permanent, is considered really bad luck. It’s believed that you’re essentially binding their fate to the paper, and not in a good way. It’s a bit dramatic, isn’t it?

If you have to write someone’s name, you’re supposed to draw a line through it afterward. It’s a way of “releasing” them from the paper’s supposed curse. I’m pretty sure this originated from ancestor veneration and the idea that names held a significant spiritual essence.

Red Pens and the Ghost of Your Mother-in-Law

This one is specifically about gifting. You absolutely, positively should not give someone something – especially money – in a red pen. Red ink is traditionally used to mark the names of the deceased on memorial plaques. Seriously, don’t do it.

It’s said to bring bad luck, often related to family tensions. I can just imagine the awkwardness if someone actually did this – my ajeomma (mother-in-law) would haunt you. You’ve been warned.

The Evil Eye (Gyesin, 귀신) and Protection Charms

The concept of gyesin (귀신) – evil spirits or the evil eye – is still very real for a lot of people. It’s not always a full-blown demon thing, but more of a sense that someone might be wishing you ill, even unconsciously.

You’ll see people wearing protective charms, like yeongdang (염낭), which are small pouches filled with salt and sometimes other items, tied around their wrists or ankles. These are meant to deflect negative energy and evil spirits. It’s a little like carrying a rabbit’s foot, I suppose.

My grandmother always made me wear one when I was a kid. I used to just think it was a weird bracelet. Now, I understand the anxiety behind it – everyone wants to be protected from… something.

Dream Interpretation: Predicting Your Future While You Sleep

Dream interpretation is surprisingly common. Dreams aren’t just random brain firings; they’re messages from the spirits or omens about your future. Dream dictionaries are still a thing, you know.

Dreaming of teeth falling out? That means someone close to you will die. Dreaming of being naked in public? You’ll be humiliated. It’s all very dramatic and unsettling. I try not to pay attention, but sometimes it’s hard to ignore.

There are even different interpretations depending on whether you’re a man or a woman, which seems a bit… extra. But hey, who am I to question ancient traditions?

The Importance of Empty Bowls and Clean Plates

This is a more subtle one, but still significant. Leaving food in your bowl or on your plate is considered impolite and can be seen as a rejection of the cook’s efforts. It’s a sign that you weren’t satisfied with the meal.

It’s not just about being polite, though. Some believe that leaving food signifies poverty or a lack of abundance. It’s a bit of a pressure thing, honestly, always feeling like you need to finish everything on your plate.

Of course, you don’t need to force yourself to eat if you’re full, but a clean plate is definitely preferred. My grandma would be judging me if I left even a single grain of rice.

Don’t Rely on a Crow

Seeing a crow? Not great. Crows are associated with bad omens and misfortune. It’s definitely not something you want to encounter on your way to an important event, like a job interview or first date.

My friend once saw a crow while she was on her way to a presentation, and she was convinced it would be a disaster. She was totally stressed out the entire time. It actually went really well, so I guess superstitions aren’t always true.

Still, if a crow crosses your path, maybe take a detour. Just in case. You know, for peace of mind.