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The year 2025 corresponds to the 42nd year in the sexagenary cycle, the Year of Eulsa, the Year of the Blue Snake. Historically, the snake has been regarded as a cautious and agile animal before facing challenges, known to be the wisest and most adept at responding to its environment among the twelve zodiac animals. In celebration of the Year of the Snake, the Korea Post will issue a New Year’s Greetings Stamp featuring the snake, symbolizing wisdom and change. br br In dreams, the appearance of a snake is often considered an auspicious omen, symbolizing wealth, luck, healing, and abundance. While it can also be interpreted negatively, representing deceit or betrayal, in Eastern cultures, the snake is respected as one of the twelve zodiac animals and is often viewed as a sacred being, seen as a guardian spirit protecting homes and villages. Additionally, some people have revered the snake as a symbol of eternal life or fertility, wishing for immortality or a prosperous number of offspring. br br The snake can also be found in our history. It is said that when Park Hyeokgeose, the founding king of Silla, ascended to the throne, 62 years later, after he ascended to the heavens and his body scattered and fell to the ground seven days later, people attempted to bury him. However, a large snake intervened, and they buried the five parts of his body separately, which came to be known as Oreung or Sareung. There is also a legend about King Suro of Gaya. When thieves heard rumors of great treasures in his tomb and attempted to break in, a giant python, measuring 30 feet in length, appeared and drove them away. br br This year`s New Year`s Greetings Stamp features the image of a snake holding a vibrant bouquet of flowers, symbolizing growth, as well as the movement of the snake advancing forward. Just as the snake sheds its skin and is reborn, the stamp conveys the meaning of Jeguposin, representing the shedding of the old and embracing a fresh start. It expresses wishes for a hopeful year, filled with new beginnings. br , br