Chuseok is one of the most important holidays in Korea, celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. Often referred to as Hangawi, this holiday takes place in the middle of autumn and symbolizes gratitude for the year’s harvest of grains and fruits. It is not only a celebration of abundance but also a meaningful time when families gather across generations to pay respect to their roots.
The origins of Chuseok can be traced back to Korea’s ancient agricultural society. Historical records indicate that harvest festivals were observed as early as the Three Kingdoms period, when communities held weaving contests, dances, and feasts to mark the day. Over centuries, these practices developed into Chuseok as it is known today, a holiday that highlights the close relationship between nature, farming, and community life in Korean culture.
During Chuseok, many Koreans travel to their hometowns to reunite with family members. Traditional meals are prepared using freshly harvested ingredients, with songpyeon,a half-moon-shaped rice cake filled with sesame seeds, beans, or chestnuts, being the most iconic food. Families share these dishes together, believing that making beautiful rice cakes brings good fortune. In addition to food, the holiday is filled with games, music, and dance. Folk traditions such as circle dancing and wrestling once symbolized unity and joy after the harvest. Although modern lifestyles have changed, these customs are still remembered and celebrated in some regions.
Today, Chuseok remains a blend of old and new. While many families continue to uphold traditions, others spend the holiday traveling or enjoying leisure time. Regardless of how it is celebrated, Chuseok serves as a reminder of gratitude, cultural heritage, and the importance of family ties. It is a holiday that connects the past with the present and continues to hold deep meaning in Korean society.
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