Like much of the Asian continent, South Korea has a long history of following the Chinese-style lunar calendar. It is for this reason that our Bellevue Korean restaurant recognizes the familiar Chinese zodiac.

The story behind the Chinese zodiac is not entirely agreed upon. Some people will say that it started with Buddha inviting animals to witness his departure from Earth, while others claim it was China’s Jade Emperor inviting the animals to a celebration of his birthday. Some people say that all animals were invited, and the only twelve animals who responded were rewarded by being placed on the calendar, while some claim that a competition was staged to see which animals would get the most esteemed positions on the calendar. Even the identities of the animals that belong on the calendar are somewhat contested. However, the most widely-accepted version places Rat in the first position, followed by Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and finally Pig.