And people aren′t the only ones happy to see the new year.
Sheep will have plenty to celebrate in the coming months, as 2015 is their year on the
zodiac calendar.
Sohn Jung-in reports on how some local sheep are getting ready to relish their moment in
the sun.
The sheep at this zoo have gone all out, dressed up in cute, rainbow-striped clothes.
Wearing embroidered hairbands and even pink blush on their cheeks, they are ready to meet
the visitors who came to see them to mark the Year of the Sheep.
They move through the fence at the sound of the bell.
Some kids get scared and walk backward out of fear, while others can′t take their hands
off of the plump wool.
"The sheep feels very soft and nice.
I have clothes made of wool, but it feels a lot different touching it with my own hands."
The animal is recognized as a source of kindness, humility and respect for parents, as seen
from a young sheep that kneels down for their mother′s milk.
"Sheep are very smart.
They can recognize their names and their keeper′s voice.
I feel proud when they hear me calling them and follow me."
It′s hoped that the Year of the Sheep will be calmer than 2014, and bring peaceful and
compassionate time, like the spirit the animal symbolizes.
Sohn Jung-in, Arirang News.