Traditional Korean games, referred to as Jeontongnori (전통놀이), offer unique opportunities for fun and cultural exploration. Whether played among family and friends or enjoyed at traditional attractions, these games reflect the depth of Korea's cultural heritage. Here is a list of some traditional activities to enjoy with your loved ones.
Commons - Wikipedia
Ganggangsullae 강강술래
Ganggangsullae is the quintessential folk activity performed during the full moon of Chuseok, showcasing Korea’s agrarian roots. This 5,000-year-old dance, recognized by UNESCO as a “seasonal harvest and fertility ritual,” provides a glimpse into rural Korean life. Participants, dressed in traditional hanbok, form a circle and hold hands, playfully mimicking vignettes of rural life while repeating the name of the dance. Today, Ganggangsullae is preserved as a performing art and is taught in elementary schools across the country.
Click here to watch it
Commons - Wikipedia
Juldarigi 줄다리기
Juldarigi is a traditional tug-of-war game involving an enormous hand-woven straw rope. This communal game was traditionally played by entire villages or counties. Currently, Dangjin and Yeongsan are famous for holding large-scale Juldarigi events. Recognized by UNESCO along with similar rituals from three other countries, Juldarigi was historically performed to usher in good fortune and a bountiful harvest. Teams participating in this game are usually divided by gender or region.
Commons - Wikipedia
Ssireum 씨름
Ssireum is a wrestling event where two participants, clad in thick fabric belts, grapple each other with the aim of bringing their opponent to the ground. While traditionally played on sand, Ssireum can be safely adapted for home play with the use of mats. This traditional Korean wrestling has also been listed in UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.
Click here to watch itDalkssaum 닭싸움
Literally translating to the "chicken-fighting game," Dalkssaum involves players hopping on one leg, attempting to knock over their opponents. This game can be played individually or in teams, often sparking intense yet enjoyable competition. You can watch a clip from a popular Korean variety show demonstrating a round of Dalkssaum here.
The show’s called “Running Man”
Commons - Wikipedia
Go-Stop 고스톱
Go-Stop is a fast-paced card game played with a deck called Hwatu (화투). Although the rules might seem complex at first glance, the fun starts unfolding after a few rounds of practice. Despite its Japanese origins, Go-Stop has garnered immense popularity in Korea, and today it's played extensively across the country during festive seasons and family gatherings.
Here's how to playYut Nori - 윷놀이
Yut Nori is a traditional Korean board game played mostly during Korean New Year. Players take turns throwing four wooden sticks and moving their markers across the board depending on how the sticks land. This game not only stimulates strategic thinking but also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among participants.
Here's how to play