Magpie Tiger Hates Lunar New Year!
Written by Park Kyung-im
Illustrated by Park Seo-young
Publisher Hoozmate
A humorous and witty reinterpretation of Korean folk painting (Minhwa),
Magpie Tiger Hates Lunar New Year! introduces readers to the traditional New Year custom of “Sebaehaeng” (New Year’s protective folk paintings).
In Korean tradition, Sebaehaeng paintings were attached to doors at the beginning of the year to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. Tigers, magpies, roosters, dogs, and mythical creatures often appeared as guardians.
But in this story, something is different.
The tiger — who is supposed to scare away ghosts — is actually terrified of them.
As Lunar New Year approaches and the village prepares its protective paintings, ghosts begin to gather in the dark streets. The brave-looking tiger desperately tries to escape from the spirits he fears the most.
Through humor and expressive illustrations, this book introduces children to:
- Korean folk painting traditions
- Lunar New Year customs
- Symbolic guardian animals in Korean culture
- The irony and humor hidden in traditional imagery
This picture book beautifully connects heritage with playful storytelling, making it an engaging introduction to Korean culture for international readers.
Themes
Lunar New Year · Korean Folk Art · Minhwa · Humor · Cultural Heritage
Recommended Age
4–9
Korea picturebook 
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