Yutnori (Korean Board Game) - Introduction
Yutnori is Korea's representative Lunar New Year game, enjoyed together by family and relatives. Four wooden sticks (yut) are thrown, and pieces move according to the results; the first team to return all four pieces to start wins. Stick patterns are named Do (pig), Gae (dog), Geol (sheep), Yut (cow), and Mo (horse), moving 1-5 spaces respectively. Landing Yut or Mo allows another throw, enabling big comebacks with consecutive good results. Capturing opponent's pieces sends them back to start, with the capturing team getting another throw. Origins are estimated before the Three Kingdoms period, originally used for divination before evolving into a game. The board symbolizes heaven, with each space representing constellations according to some theories. Even today, families gather for Yutnori on Lunar New Year, and it's popular at Korean cultural experience events overseas. Combining strategy and luck, anyone can easily enjoy it regardless of age or gender.
Basic Information
- Origin: 한국 (삼국시대~)
- Players: 2팀 이상
- Equipment: 윷가락 4개, 말 4개, 윷판
How to Play & Features
Yutnori is Korea's representative Lunar New Year game, enjoyed together by family and relatives. Four wooden sticks (yut) are thrown, and pieces move according to the results; the first team to return all four pieces to start wins. Stick patterns are named Do (pig), Gae (dog), Geol (sheep), Yut (cow), and Mo (horse), moving 1-5 spaces respectively. Landing Yut or Mo allows another throw, enabling big comebacks with consecutive good results. Capturing opponent's pieces sends them back to start, with the capturing team getting another throw. Origins are estimated before the Three Kingdoms period, originally used for divination before evolving into a game. The board symbolizes heaven, with each space representing constellations according to some theories. Even today, families gather for Yutnori on Lunar New Year, and it's popular at Korean cultural experience events overseas. Combining strategy and luck, anyone can easily enjoy it regardless of age or gender.
Cultural Value
This game is a representative Korean folk game that became known worldwide through the Netflix drama 'Squid Game.' It revives childhood memories while showcasing the unique charm of Korean culture. Currently available for hands-on experience at folk villages, museums, and cultural centers in Seoul, it's a popular program for foreign tourists as well.