Noah has just turned 100 days old. In Korea, there is a tradition of celebrating a baby’s 100th day. This special day, known as “Baek-il,” holds significant meaning for family and friends as they wish for the baby’s health and happiness. In the past, the 100th day was considered a crucial milestone because newborns were seen as fragile, so reaching this day was a significant achievement. Thus, Baek-il is an important occasion to celebrate the baby’s survival and health, and to wish for their continued growth and happiness. Additionally, combining the pregnancy period with the baby’s 100 days marks the completion of a year since the baby’s life began.
To celebrate Noah’s Baek-il, my husband and I traveled from Canada to Korea to meet with family. Considering Noah’s condition, we first flew from Halifax to Toronto, spent a night there, and then took a long 14.5-hour flight to Korea. Contrary to our worries, Noah ate and slept well on the plane. How adorable! I started preparing for Baek-il from Canada. The table was set with a variety of dishes, each with its own special meaning.
Meaning of Baek-il Dishes:
- Health and Longevity: Baeksuk (steamed white rice cake), silk threads, and silk yarn
- Progeny and Prosperity: Dates, chestnuts, fruit, money, and rice
- Luck and Fortune: Noodles, rice cakes, lucky bags, and five-colored paper
- Ward Off Bad Luck: Red bean cakes and red bean powder
While it’s not necessary to include everything on the Baek-il table, what truly matters is the love and care of the parents.
We dressed Noah in a hanbok and tried to take commemorative photos, but he seemed tired and made it difficult to get good pictures. After breastfeeding and a nap, Noah’s condition improved, and we managed to capture some lovely photos of his Baek-il!
To our beloved Noah,
Today is a special day marking 100 days since you were born. Noah, we are truly happy and grateful that you’ve reached your first 100 days safely. From the moment you came into this world until now, you have made our lives so much more meaningful and joyful. Your tiny hands and feet, your pure eyes, and your smile are precious treasures to us. We hope to create many more memories with you in the days to come and to always keep you smiling and happy.
Noah, we sincerely wish for a life filled with happiness and health, and may each day be filled with love and joy. On this special day, we pray that your future will be bright and full of shining moments. We love you, Noah.
With love and blessings,
Mom and Dad