In South Korea, each lunar year is represented by one of twelve animals in the rotation of the Korean zodiac calendar—and 2020 is the Year of the Rat!
Today’s animated Doodle commemorates one of the most significant national holidays in South Korea, Seollal, the country’s observance of the Lunar New Year. It depicts the story of the grand race that earned the rat its premier spot in the calendar.
According to ancient legend, an emperor challenged different animals to race through the land to determine their order in the Zodiac. Due to his size, the rat knew it could not cross a river on his own, so he hitched a ride on the ox’s back. But, just before reaching the opposite shore over a river, the rat then cleverly leapt off—winning first place in the race and thus the zodiac calendar!
Often viewed as an opportunity to pay respects to ancestors and elders, this multi-day celebration gathers loved ones together to play endless games of yut and share some delectable tteokguk!
새해 복 많이 받으세요!
Early sketches and draft of the Doodle
Which zodiac animal are you?
(TIP: Look for “Korean zodiac” in Google Search!)
Rat
Ox
Tiger
Rabbit
Dragon
Snake
Horse
Sheep
Monkey
Rooster
Dog
Pig
25.01.2020-Saturday-சனி-Doodle-Lunar New Year (South Korea) 2020-PNG.
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