1st birthday in Korea

I attended a 1st birthday party in Korea this past weekend.  It was much different from the cake smeared present opening birthday parties I'm used to attending.  The party was held in fancy hall with a picture display of baby Sol and gifts for the guests.  When i walked in i was give a ticket number.  I was asked to choose which item I predicted she'd choose for her future. In Korea they place items in front of the baby and which ever she chooses represents her path in life.  The six items at this party were a computer mouse (for technology), string (a long life), stethoscope (medical), pencil (scholar), rice(plenty and riches),and money( wealth).   I placed my ticket number in rice b/c i figured food was essential for life.  

   

The guests walked around and ate from a lavish buffet spread.  Baby Sol was wearing a very cute white dress with a head band similar to a communion dress.  Her initial reaction to all this attention wasn't glee but frustration.  I think having all everyone stare at poke wasn't really that pleasant.  Jon and his wife wore traditional hanboks.  Later they changed baby Sol into a matching hanbok.  They stood up at the front of their friend and family and had a mini dedication for baby Sol.  This area was adorned with fruits and other decorations similar to a shrine.  Some of the family members spoke and said happy wishes for the baby's future.  

Then they put a tray with all of the items mentioned in front of her.  She chose a pencil.  The crowd clapped.  They chose a number from the people to predicted she'd choose a pencil and gave that person a gift.  The baby was given gifts but there was no opening of them and they weren't toys.  I'm not sure everything she received but i was told it is traditional practice to give the baby a gold ring (that is what my coworkers and I bought for her)

Over all a nice time, but quite extravagant for what I'm used to and not as messy or laughing.  According to the results of baby Sol's choice she will have a life of study and knowledge becoming a scholar.

Happy 1st Birthday Sol!