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The Story of the Twelve Animals of the Korean Zodiac

The Twelve Animals of the Korean Zodiac

The Twelve Animals of the Korean Zodiac

12지 동물
Humans, as mortal beings, needed an object to depend upon, and tried to reach divinity through certain species of animals. There are twelve animals that mediate between this world and the next world, which we call the Chinese zodiac animals. They were also regarded as objects of faith.
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Animal Folklore Zodiac Signs

The Twelve Zodiac Animals as Subjects of Faith
Life with Humans and Animals
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The Twelve Zodiac Animals in the Arts
How are the twelve zodiac animals represented in works of art and culture?
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The Twelve Zodiac Animals in the Daily Life of Korean People
The twelve zodiac animals, which have long been a part of Korean people’s daily life, can also be found in many folk games.
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The Twelve Zodiac Animals in Modern Times
Now let’s find out about how the meanings of the zodiac signs, which are closely associated with Korean people’s deepest sentiments, have evolved in the present day.
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The Twelve Zodiac Animals

12지 동물 중 쥐
Rat (子)
The Rat, the animal of clairvoyance, symbolizes abundance, hope and opportunity.
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12지 동물 중 소
Cow (丑)
The Cow, as a capital asset, was an integral part of every farming family.
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12지 동물 중 호랑이
Tiger (寅)
The Tiger is the largest and the most ferocious animal in the cat family.
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12지 동물 중 토끼
Rabbit (卯)
The Rabbit symbolizes abundance. In an old folk tale, the rabbit is pounding with a mortar and pestle under a laurel tree beneath the silvery moon.
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12지 동물 중 용
Dragon (辰)
The Dragon stands for absolute power and serves as the symbol of royal authority.
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12지 동물 중 뱀
Snake (巳)
The Snake symbolizes abundance and fertility for its ability to breed in abundance.
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12지 동물 중 말
Horse (午)
The Horse carries the image of dynamic power and vitality; with its stamina and endurance, the horse had long been considered a precious asset.
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12지 동물 중 양
Sheep (未)
The Sheep keeps its cool under pressure and pursues composure and peace.
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12지 동물 중 원숭이
Monkey (申)
Among the twelve zodiac animals, the Monkey resembles man the most.
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12지 동물 중 닭
Rooster (酉)
The Rooster announces daybreak that brings in light amid the darkness.
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12지 동물 중 개
Dog (戌)
The Dog remains truly loyal to its owner come rain or shine.
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12지 동물 중 쥐
Pig (亥)
The Pig has long been considered an auspicious animal that can bring fortune and happiness.
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