Introduction
In this post, we delve into the symbolic significance of dyeing balsam flowers on fingernails, or 봉숭아 물들이기, in Korea, its historical origins dating back to the Goryeo Dynasty, and its enduring presence in modern Korean society. Inspired by a poignant scene from the popular Korean drama “Queen of Tears,” where a character applies balsam flower water to her finger, we explore the profound meaning behind this tradition of dyeing balsam flowers on fingers and its relevance in today’s context.
Dyeing Balsam Flowers in ‘Queen of Tears’
In episode 13 of the popular Korean drama “Queen of Tears,” there’s a poignant scene where Hong Hae-in (played by actor Kim Ji-won), facing surgery to remove a brain tumor, applies balsam flower water to her pinky finger.
“It signifies my excitement, hope, and anticipation for the first snow that I thought I’d never see. I didn’t think I’d ever see winter again, let alone the first snow. But it’s possible now. And it’ll come true if the color still remains by then.” She says.
“What will come true?” Baek Hyun-woo asks.
“My first love.” She answers.
Lines from ‘Queen of Tears’ Episode 13
The tradition behind dyeing balsam flowers is that if the balsam flower water remains until the first snow falls, the first love will come true. This gesture holds significance for her, as she shares it with Baek Hyun-woo, her first love, and husband, after he comes home from work, expressing hope and excitement for the first snow and the possibility of realizing her love with him and not dying. The impending surgery weighs heavily on her first love, Baek Hyun-woo, especially as it could save her life but erase her memories.
In episode 14, Hong Hae-in’s surgery was successfully completed, and she regained consciousness. However, as expected, her memories had disappeared. As she glanced out the hospital window, she noticed the first snowfall and observed balsam water dyed on her pinky finger, though unaware of its significance, she subconsciously felt its importance. Unfortunately, she no longer recognized Baek Hyeon-woo. Nonetheless, the balsam water remained on her finger as the first snow began to fall.
Historical Origin of Balsam Flower Dyeing
The tradition of dyeing balsam flowers is said to have originated during the Goryeo Dynasty. Legend has it that King Chungseon, exiled to the Yuan Dynasty, once dreamed of a beautiful girl playing the gayageum, a traditional Korean musical instrument, her fingers dripping with blood.
Unable to shake himself off of the ominous dream, the king wandered the palace and came across a girl whose fingers were tightly bound with cloth and thread. Revealing herself as the daughter of one of King Chungseon’s servants, she expressed her longing to return to her homeland. She shared that both she and her father were blinded by sorrow. She also shared that she dyed her fingers with balsam flowers to comfort his heavy heart.
Upon his return to Goryeo, the king planted numerous balsam flowers in the palace in remembrance of the girl’s heartache. In the “Dongguksesigi (동국세시기),” it is mentioned that dyeing one’s nails with balsam flowers also carries the symbolism of a folk belief, believed to ward off ghosts with the color red, in the minds of women who seek to adorn their nails. Since then, the practice of dyeing balsam flowers on fingers has become a Korean folk tradition or seasonal custom, where girls and young women dye their fingernails with balsam flowers during the fourth month of the lunar calendar.
Valuable During Cosmetic Scarcity
During a time when it was difficult to get cosmetics, it became customary for girls and young women to dye their fingers with balsam water every summer. As summer drew to a close, following the end of the rainy season, mothers would gather balsam flowers to dye their daughters’ fingernails. While nail care is now readily accessible, this ritual held immense value for women when cosmetics were scarce. Interestingly, even thicker-hued flowers like roses did not yield better dye results than balsam. It’s hard to imagine the challenge of trimming nails grown during a time when finger dyeing held greater significance than the readily available nail polishes of today.
Instructions for Dyeing Balsam Flowers on Fingers
Give this ritual a try.
Steps:
1. Prepare balsam flowers and leaves.
2. Pound them with a little salt or alum.
3. Cool the mixture in the freezer for a short time.
4. Apply the crushed balsam flower to the nails, wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and thread.
5. Leave it for about an hour before removing the balsam and washing the nails with water.
6. Optionally, apply a clear coating to preserve the color.
Caution:
- Individuals allergic to flowers should avoid this practice.
- Use only a small amount of salt or alum to avoid skin problem.
- Perform a skin test before proceeding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the tradition of dyeing balsam flowers on fingers is not merely a cosmetic ritual but a deeply rooted cultural practice that reflects the values, beliefs, and historical heritage of Korea. From its origins in ancient legends to its continued presence in contemporary society, this tradition serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of symbolism and tradition in shaping Korean culture. As we celebrate and preserve this cherished aspect of Korean heritage, let us also reflect on the rich tapestry of traditions that make up the vibrant mosaic of Korean culture.
