2023 is the year of Gyemyo, or black rabbit, as the 40th year in the sexagenary cycle. Rabbits are mild and have full of tricks, which is why they are known as the epitome of wisdom, and they also give birth to many baby rabbits so their ability to reproduce often symbolizes abundance. In celebration of the Year of the Rabbit, Korea Post is issuing the commemorative stamps New Year`s Greetings with the theme of rabbits—a symbol of fecundity, great fortune and wisdom. Having large, round eyes and long ears, rabbits are a familiar animal as they frequently appear in children`s stories and songs with their gentle and lovely image.
They are also popular characters in folktales and fables, most of which depict rabbits as clever and full of wits. Samguk Sagi (History of the Three Kingdoms) tells a story in which Kim Chunchu of Silla went to Goguryeo to request for troops and was accused of being a spy but ended up saving his life by using the tale of a rabbit and a turtle. Also, Tokkijeon (The Story of a Rabbit), a pansori fable from late Joseon, depicts a clever rabbit who evades a crisis when the rabbit nearly had to give up the rabbit’s liver to the Dragon King of the sea. Because of this symbolic image of a small, mild but wise rabbit, it was popularly used in traditional stationery items such as yeonjeok (water dropper) and byeoru (inkstone).
White Porcelain Water Dropper in the Shape of Rabbit in Underglaze Iron and Celadon Incense Burner with Openwork Seven Treasures Pattern (National Treasure) propped up by rabbits are a pair of artifacts from which we can find adorable rabbits. Furthermore, a rabbit gives birth to 5 to 6 babies at once and can become pregnant again after just 24 hours, which is why it represents prosperity and abundance based on strong reproduction. The New Year`s Greetings stamps feature a snowy winter background comprising two types of stamps. One depicts an illustration of a rabbit holding a carrot, and the other depicts side-by-side silhouettes of a rabbit and a bunny. We hope this commemorative stamp series serves as an opportunity to welcome the new year wisely and cleverly like a rabbit. May your 2023 be full of blessings and good health.
