In Korean tradition, parents celebrate their
newborn's 100th day of life.
Baek-il literally means "100th day". For centuries, infant mortality was very high in Korea. Much like a
CPU burn-in period or failure rates over a
bathtub curve, if a baby could live for a 100 days, there was a good chance it would make it to adulthood.
The parents and
relatives celebrate the baby's 100th day by preparing special
yummy treats. Four types of
rice cakes are prepared and have symbolic meanings or wishes. A steamed rice cake is prepared to represent
longevity. Another is prepared to represent holiness. A red bean rice cake is prepared to dispel
evil spirits. A five-color moon rice cake is prepared to show the child's
harmony with nature.