Customary Practices in Question: A Look at Long-Lasting Norms and Beliefs

A Glimpse into the Past and Present of Women's Roles in Seoul, South Korea 🇰🇷

Customary practices or long-standing customs under review - Customary Practices in Question: A Look at Long-Lasting Norms and Beliefs

In the dynamic, bustling metropolis of Seoul, age-old customs persist alongside modernity, showcasing the intricate bonds between tradition and progress. The role of women in Seoul society remains deeply interwoven with Confucian values, family-centric rituals, and Korean cultural heritage.

Women and Traditional Customs

Family and Ancestral Rituals

Two significant holidays, Seollal (설날) and Chuseok (추석), are marked by women excelling in food preparation and organizing rituals. They take the lead in making traditional dishes like rice cake soup (tteokguk) and savory pancakes for the family gatherings[1]. The sebae, a deep bow to elders, is performed by all, but women's roles in food preparation and organizing the ceremonies are particularly prominent[1].

The traditional attire, hanbok, worn during these important celebrations and life events such as weddings, funerals, and first birthdays, is used to indicate age and marital status[1][4].

Childbirth and Early Life Practices

Pregnancy and childbirth were traditionally overseen by the mother-in-law and experienced women within the family. After the birth, protective rituals were implemented, such as tying a gold rope around the front door and limiting visitors, especially for newborn sons[3]. Postpartum practices were significant, with the mother and baby taking their first wash on the third day and celebrating after the protective period ended[3].

Community and Work

The dedication of women in deep-sea diving, as exemplified by the Haenyeo, women from Jeju Island, embodies the traditional work ethic and community orientation in Korean society[5]. Though not held exclusively in Seoul, their story portrays the centrality of women's roles in this ancient culture.

Stepping into the Future

As the metropolis advances, women in Seoul today juggle these age-old customs with contemporary lifestyles. While hanbok remains a revered piece for special occasions, modern interpretations and hanbok rentals make it more accessible for sightseeing[1][4]. Traditional rituals around holidays and family events persist, primarily with women shouldering the responsibility of food preparation and event organization.

Traditional Roles, Modern Live

Here's a snapshot of customs and their significance in shaping the lives of women in Seoul:

| Custom/Practice | Description | Women's Role ||-------------------|--------------------|-----------------------|| Seollal/Chuseok | Family gatherings | Food prep, organization || Childbirth Trad. | Protective rituals | Mother, family support || Wearing Hanbok | Traditional attire | Wearer, preparation || Haenyeo (Jeju) | Deep-sea diving | Central role |

Historical practices continue to impact the lives of women in Seoul, emphasizing the enduring influence of tradition in the face of urban modernity[1][3][4].

In the contemporary urban landscape of Seoul, South Korea, women continue to uphold traditionally rooted rituals, such as preparing food during family gatherings for Seollal and Chuseok, while also embracing modern interpretations of traditional attire like hanbok for sightseeing.

Women's deep-rooted role in work ethic and community, as displayed by Haenyeo, women from Jeju Island, remains an integral part of Korean culture, even if it is not exclusive to Seoul.

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