Malbok is the last of Sambok (Chobok, Jungbok, and Malbok), the three hottest periods of summer in Korea. Sambok is determined by the traditional calendar based on specific Gyeong (庚) days, with Chobok marking the first period, Jungbok the second, and Malbok the final one after Ipchu (the Beginning of Autumn). During this time, Koreans have long followed the tradition of eating nourishing foods to stay healthy and regain energy.
This year, Chobok falls on July 15, Jungbok on July 25, and Malbok on August 14. Usually, each Bok day is 10 days apart. However, 2026 is a Wolbok (월복) year, so there are 20 days between Jungbok and Malbok instead of the usual 10.
On Malbok, many people enjoy traditional stamina-boosting dishes such as samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), chicken stew, or grilled eel. More than just a day for eating special foods, Malbok is a seasonal tradition that encourages people to take care of their health before autumn arrives.
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