What is Saju? 사주팔자

Saju (사주), literally meaning “Four Pillars,” is Korea's ancient system of destiny analysis. For over a thousand years, Koreans have used this profound system to understand personality, predict life events, and make major decisions.

The Four Pillars 사주

Your Saju chart is built from four “pillars,” each representing a different aspect of your life. These pillars are determined by your exact birth year, month, day, and hour:

• Year Pillar (년주) — Your ancestral energy and social persona
• Month Pillar (월주) — Your parents' influence and career path
• Day Pillar (일주) — Your core self and marriage/partnerships
• Hour Pillar (시주) — Your children, legacy, and later years

The Five Elements 오행

Each pillar contains two characters: a Heavenly Stem (천간) and an Earthly Branch (지지). These characters correspond to the Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — which interact in cycles of creation and control.

The balance of these elements in your chart reveals your strengths, challenges, and the energies you need to cultivate for harmony.

Your Day Master 일간

The most important element in your chart is your Day Master — the Heavenly Stem of your Day Pillar. This represents your core identity. There are 10 Day Master types, each with unique characteristics and destinies.

Saju in Modern Korea

Today, Saju remains deeply embedded in Korean culture. K-pop entertainment companies consult Saju masters when forming groups. Couples check their compatibility before marriage. Business leaders choose auspicious dates for launches. Even in modern, tech-forward Korea, the ancient wisdom of the Four Pillars continues to guide millions.