Every year, celebrities, politicians, and other people take part in ringing the New Year’s bell to welcome the new year. This year, the bell will be rung 33 times between 11:00 PM on December 31 and 1:00 AM on January 1. The reason for ringing the bell 33 times comes from a Buddhist idea called “33 heavens,” which refers to 33 heavenly realms. It is believed that ringing the bell will open these heavens, allowing all living beings to begin their new activities.

In the past, every city would open its gates at 4 AM and ring 33 bells every day. This tradition has been passed down to today.

At Boshingak, a special ceremony happens on New Year's Eve. The bell is rung, there are performances, and the “midnight sun” is raised, giving people a chance to see the first light of the new year before the night ends.

(Photo by Seoul Official Instagram)