An eventful year has passed, and a new year has dawned. 2023 is the Year of Gyemyo - the Year of the Black Rabbit. The rabbit, the fourth animal in the zodiac, has been a symbol of hope, fortune, and abundance to Koreans. The Korean folktale The Tale of Rabbit depicts the creature as a wise animal, escaping life-threatening danger by deceiving the turtle who tries to steal the rabbit’s liver. Wishing this year to be filled with auspicious days, here are some fruitful recommendations of places, stationeries, and treats to enjoy the year. Follow the trace of this furry and witty animal with the Hanyang Journal: longevity, peace, and prosperity will find you.

1. National Museum of Korea – Find the Rabbit

To mark the year of the rabbit, the National Museum of Korea is hosting a free exhibition, “Find the Rabbit.” Transcending the ancient Korean times from the Goyreo to the Joseon Dynasty, this special exhibition displays a range of Korean ceramics, crafts and calligraphic paintings. It is attractive that visitors can savor the works of art while also searching for ten different artifacts related to the rabbit. One in particular, the room of “Goryeo Celadons” located on the 3rd floor is a must-visit space. The phrase written on the entrance “Blue as jade, radiant as crystal”, wonderfully captures the fascinating beauty of Korean celadon. Looking down at the delicately adorned surface and shining hue of the “Celadon Incense Burner with Openwork,” you will be able to observe three rabbits holding the vase up. For those looking for a tranquil space to recharge, this exhibition is just perfect.

2. Krispy Kreme Doughnut – Happy Miffy Dozen

No sweet treat lovers would ever pass up the opportunity for a Krispy Kreme Doughnut. Recently, the doughnut franchise shop has launched a new item, Happy Miffy Dozen. This is a collaboration with the adorable character Miffy, a bunny with little, black eyes and two pointy ears. The newly released item features four different flavors. As soon as you take a bite of Happy Miffy, a soft rice-flavored spread fills up your mouth along with crunchy bunny-shaped white chocolate coating the top. You cannot miss the black bunny Lucky Melanie, a doughnut filled with hazelnut chocolate spread and milk dark chocolate. Last but not least, Carrot garden with carrot-flavored spread and Lovely Rabbit Foot dipped into melon cream are also worthy of trying. For those who want to celebrate the new year in an offbeat way, the Happy Miffy Dozen is definitely a satisfying choice for both your stomach and your luck.

3. Monami – 153 Black Bunny Pen

Writing a new year's resolution is an annual habit during which many hope to wrap up the year well and leap forward successfully. For those who want to record their new year wishes and hopes, Korea's well-known stationary brand Monami has released a limited-edition package called 153 Black Bunny. Based on Monami’s signature product “153 Ballpoint Pens”, 153 Black Bunny is a newly launched pen package consisting of five different designs with three varying tips, featuring cute rabbit drawings. An eye-catching tin case in classy black color is also decorated with glitter and a hologram on the top. 153 Black Bunny is now available at both official online Monami mall and shopping malls, and all offline Monami Store. Do not miss this limited edition, and share this perfect gift with your loved ones!