새봄 New Beginnings
sae-bom — “a new spring.” For the first step of something new.
Make a New Beginnings talismanThe word on the talisman
새봄 (sae-bom) means “a new spring.” It is a soft, hopeful word for beginnings.
On ipchun, the first day of spring in the traditional calendar (around February 4), many Korean homes still post ipchunbang on their front doors: short wishes in brush calligraphy such as “At the start of spring, great fortune” and “Bright days, many celebrations.” Old ones are taken down and new ones go up, as a way of welcoming the season.
It suits any fresh start — a new home, a new city, the first year of college, or a decision to begin again.
In Korea, families post wishes on the gate on the first day of spring. The custom is called ipchunbang: short wishes for luck and abundance, written in brush and posted to welcome the season.
Wishes people write
- “A fresh start in my new home.”
- “Stick to my resolution.”
- “A brave first year of college.”
- “Start over, and do it well.”
How people keep it
Keep it where you start your day.
Make a New Beginnings talisman
Other wishes
- LoveFor the heart you hope to find, or keep.
- WealthFor money that comes, and stays.
- ExamsFor the test that matters most.
- CareerFor the job, the raise, the leap.
- HealthFor healing, for you or someone you love.
- ProtectionFor safe roads and calm days.
- FamilyFor a home full of laughter.
- FriendshipFor the people meant to cross your path.
- Peace of MindFor a quieter, lighter heart.