Why Koreans Fry Jeon (Korean Pancakes) During Holidays

Hello! 😊

 Have you ever wondered why Koreans fry so many jeon (Korean-style pancakes) 

during traditional holidays like Chuseok or Lunar New Year?

For Koreans, jeon is not just a delicious side dish; 

it holds a deeper cultural and even spiritual meaning. 

While many see it as a staple of the holiday table, 

there are some fascinating beliefs and traditions behind the act of frying jeon. 

Let me take you through the reasons why this dish is so meaningful during the holidays.

1️⃣ Frying Jeon: A Symbol of Prosperity

In Korean culture, oil symbolizes wealth and abundance. 

Frying food in oil was historically considered a luxurious cooking method, 

as oil was expensive and not commonly used in daily meals.

During holidays, using plenty of oil to fry jeon 

symbolizes inviting prosperity into the household.

The sizzling sound of frying is 

also thought to bring positive energy and ward off negativity.

2️⃣ The Round Shape: Unity and Harmony

Have you noticed that most jeon are round? In Korean tradition, 

round shapes symbolize wholeness and harmony.

Preparing round jeon reflects 

a wish for the family to stay united and avoid conflicts.

The act of sharing these neatly shaped pancakes 

emphasizes the importance of family bonds during the holidays.

3️⃣ Appeasing Spirits with Fragrance and Sound

Korean holidays are rooted in ancestral traditions, 

and it is believed that jeon’s aroma and the sound of frying please the spirits of ancestors.

The fragrant smell of jeon invites the spirits of loved ones to join the family gathering.

At the same time, the sound of sizzling oil is 

thought to keep away bad spirits and ensure good fortune for the household.

4️⃣ A Sign of Generosity in Agricultural Society

In Korea’s agrarian past, oil was a precious resource, and frying food was a rare treat.

Serving jeon during holidays was a way of showing gratitude 

for the year’s harvest and praying for abundance in the coming year.

Preparing a variety of jeon—made from fish, vegetables, 

or meat—demonstrates a family’s generosity 

and hospitality toward their ancestors and guests.

5️⃣ The Fire and Oil Connection: Cleansing Negativity

In Korean tradition, fire is often associated with cleansing and purifying.

Frying jeon in hot oil is believed to remove 

any lingering bad luck or negative energy in the home.

The act of frying also sets a hopeful tone for the new year by symbolically “starting fresh.”

6️⃣ Superstitions About Frying Jeon

Korean holidays come with their share of superstitions, and jeon-making is no exception!

If the jeon tears or sticks to the pan, 

it’s seen as a bad omen, potentially signaling misfortune.

Too much oil splattering while frying could symbolize financial troubles or family disputes.

For this reason, families often take extra care to fry jeon perfectly,

 as it’s believed to impact the luck of the household.

7️⃣ Modern Meaning of Jeon

Even today, jeon holds a special place on the Korean holiday table.

Frying jeon has become a family activity 

where everyone comes together to help, talk, and bond.

The variety of jeon—zucchini, fish, meat, and mung bean—

represents the diversity and richness of Korean culture.

A Final Thought 💭

For Koreans, frying jeon is more than just cooking—

it’s about tradition, family, and hope. 

Next time you enjoy jeon, think about the deeper cultural meaning 

behind those golden, crispy pancakes. 

Who knows? Maybe frying jeon will bring a bit of good luck to your life too!

If you have any questions about Korean traditions 

or want to share your thoughts, leave a comment below! 😊