Birth Time and Calendar Choices for a Saju Chart

Start with the recorded date

Use the birth date you actually know. Distinguish the Gregorian solar date from a lunar-calendar date, and record whether a lunar birth date is in a leap month. Entering a lunar date as a solar date can produce a different chart. Check the tool’s calendar selector rather than assuming it will detect the date format.

What the hour pillar adds

Traditional charts divide time into two-hour branches. The hour pillar adds information to the year, month and day pillars. Calendar boundaries and time conventions can differ between tools, especially near a change of day or a seasonal boundary. When comparing results, check that both tools use the same input and explain their calculation rules.

When the birth time is unknown

Choose the unknown-time setting. The year, month and day pillars can still be displayed, while the hour pillar remains unspecified. Treat the result as a partial chart. Guessing a time may make a chart look complete while adding information you do not actually know.

Learn the basics

• The Five Elements in Saju: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water
• Birth Time and Calendar Choices for a Saju Chart
• Korean Saju and BaZi: What Do the Four Pillars Mean?
• How to Read a Korean Saju Chart for Beginners