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Why are there so many homeless people around Seoul Station?

 You may notice quite a few homeless people around Seoul Station. A lot of visitors ask me, “Why are there so many homeless people here?” One of the biggest reasons goes back to 1997, during the Asian Financial Crisis. In Korea, we usually call it the IMF Crisis . A lot of companies went bankrupt, unemployment rose very quickly, and many people suddenly lost their jobs and income. Some people eventually lost their homes as well. And many of them came to Seoul Station . Why here? Because this was one of the main places to find day labor and temporary jobs , and it was also the main railway station if they wanted to go back to their hometowns. But some had no money left and nowhere else to go, so they stayed around the station. That is one reason Seoul Station became one of the main gathering places for homeless people after the 1997 crisis. Then another thing happened. Once many homeless people were here, churches, charities, NGOs, and the government started providing help here. Th...

Bokjori: The Traditional Korean Lucky Charm

Have you ever heard of Bokjori (복조리), the traditional Korean lucky charm? This woven bamboo strainer is not just a kitchen tool but a symbol of good fortune and prosperity in Korea. Especially around the Lunar New Year, Bokjori is hung on walls to invite luck and ward off misfortune. Let’s explore the fascinating tradition of Bokjori and its cultural significance.


🎍 What is Bokjori?

Bokjori is a tool to sift dirt from rice traditionally used in Korean households. While it originally served as a tool for washing rice, its meaning has evolved over time. Today, it is a symbol of luck and wealth, with many Koreans believing that hanging a Bokjori in their homes brings good fortune.


✅ Material: Bamboo
✅ Shape: Round, woven strainer
✅ Symbolism: Luck, prosperity, and protection from bad energy
✅ Best Time to Hang: Lunar New Year’s Eve




🎍 The Tradition of Buying Bokjori

One of the most famous Bokjori markets is in Andong, a city known for preserving Korean traditions. Every year, people gather to buy Bokjori at the crack of dawn on Lunar New Year’s Day, as it is believed that the earlier you buy it, the more luck you will receive in the coming year.

🎍 How to Use Bokjori

Koreans typically hang Bokjori on walls or doors, especially in kitchens, to attract wealth and good luck. Some families even keep multiple Bokjori in different rooms to enhance their fortune.

🎍 Modern Adaptations

While traditional Bokjori is still popular, modern variations are now available in miniature sizes, decorative designs, and even as keychains. These contemporary versions make great gifts and souvenirs, spreading Korean cultural heritage worldwide.




Bokjori is more than just a woven bamboo strainer—it is a cherished part of Korean culture and tradition. Whether you believe in its power or simply appreciate its beauty, adding a Bokjori to your home could be a meaningful way to embrace Korean heritage.

💡 Interested in more Korean traditions? Check out our guide to Lunar New Year customs and lucky charms! 👉 Read More

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