Jesa is a traditional Korean ritual performed to honor the dead and show respect to the ancestors. The word jesa comes from the Chinese characters 寿 (수, su) and 祭 (재, jae), which together mean "longevity" and "ritual."
The jesa korean ritual is typically performed on special occasions such as a death anniversary, a birthday, or a wedding. It is also performed when a baby is born, when someone is sick, or when someone is about to embark on a journey.
The jesa ritual involves setting up a table with food and drinks and offering them to the ancestors. The food and beverages are usually placed on a white cloth, and the ancestors' names are written on the cloth. After the food and drinks are offered, the family members will bow to the ancestors and then eat the food themselves.
The jesa ritual is an integral part of Korean culture and is a way for the living to connect with the dead. It is a way of showing respect and honor to the ancestors and remembering them.
The Charye is a memorial service held on the death's first and third anniversary. It is also held on the death anniversary itself. The service is conducted by a shaman, and includes offering the ancestors food and drink. The food and beverages are placed on an altar, and the shaman performs a ritual to send the ancestors' spirits back to the afterlife.
The Jesa and Charye are essential rituals in Korean culture, as they allow the deceased's family to honor their ancestors and remember them respectfully.