How Saju Compatibility (Gunghap) Works
The chemistry between two charts
Gunghap is the reading of two charts together to understand the chemistry of a relationship. It is never simply "good" or "bad" — every match has dimensions that fit easily and dimensions that require attention.
Reading by Day Masters
The relationship between the two Day Masters is the foundation. Same element brings similarity and empathy; a generative relationship brings nurture.
A Heavenly Stem Combination ("a destined match") creates natural attraction. The five classical pairs are Jia–Ji, Yi–Geng, Bing–Xin, Ding–Ren, and Wu–Gui.
A restraint relationship can produce friction, but that tension is often itself the attraction and the engine of mutual growth.
Reading by branches
Look at the relationships between the earthly branches — Combination, Clash, Punishment, Breaking, and Harm. The day branches in particular represent the spouse palace.
Six Combinations: six pairings that interlock deeply for harmonious relationships.
Three Combinations: four powerful element formations (Shen-Zi-Chen for Water, Si-You-Chou for Metal, Yin-Wu-Xu for Fire, Hai-Mao-Wei for Wood).
Clashes oppose opposite energies and warn of friction and instability at home.
Reading by elemental complementarity
Combining the two charts, do they supplement each other's missing elements? Excess Wood on one side, deficient Wood on the other — that itself is complementarity.
When each partner's Useful God appears in the other's chart, the match is among the best. Simply being together improves each other's fortune.
Conversely, if one partner's Taboo God is heavily present in the other's chart, being together can feel like a burden and conscious effort is required.
The right attitude toward compatibility
Gunghap is reference, not destiny. A low score does not mean you must part; a high score does not mean things will go well effortlessly. The right use is to identify where effort is needed and broaden mutual understanding.
Even charts with conflict can deepen into rich relationships when both partners understand and respect their differences. Even "perfect" matches grow stale without active care.
Gunghap is a map of a relationship, not a verdict. Reading both charts side by side reveals where harmony comes easily and where friction is likely — insight that helps you build a healthier connection.