Chuseok: South Korea’s Thanksgiving Day allures to explore Korean culture

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Seoul, South Korea’s lively capital, is a metropolis that flawlessly mixes history and contemporary life. And there is no better time to appreciate this unique city’s rich cultural legacy than during Chuseok, one of South Korea’s most significant and treasured holidays. This post is an all-inclusive guide to spending the Chuseok holiday in Seoul.

Chuseok: The Korean Thanksgiving

Chuseok, also known as Korean Thanksgiving Day, is a three-day harvest celebration held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, generally in late September or early October. It’s a time for family to gather, show appreciation for the harvest, and honour ancestors via ancestral customs.

What to Expect During Chuseok

Chuseok is a traditional holiday. Families dressed in colourful hanboks (traditional Korean clothes) will be practising ancestor ceremonies known as Charye. It’s a gloomy yet lovely sight.

Feasting:

Food is central to Chuseok ceremonies. The Chuseok feast, which includes wonderful foods such Korean songpyeon (rice cakes), jeon (pan-fried delicacies), and freshly gathered fruits, is not to be missed. Don’t miss out on the local specialty, hanjeongsik, a sumptuous Korean feast.

Han River Hangout:

During Chuseok, many Seoul residents travel to the Han River parks for picnics, sports, and leisure. Join them for a relaxing day by the river, and you could even see some traditional acts.

Cultural Experiences:

During Chuseok, Seoul’s palaces, such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, host unique programmes. Participate in these activities to learn about Korean culture.

Lantern Festivals:

Witness the city decked out in colourful lanterns and take part in lantern-making activities. During Chuseok, the Jogyesa Temple, in particular, is a mesmerising sight.

Shopping Extravaganza:

During Chuseok, Koreans love to shop. For Chuseok bargains and discounts, visit ancient marketplaces like Namdaemun and Dongdaemun, as well as contemporary malls like Myeongdong.

Namsan Seoul Tower:

Enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from Namsan Seoul Tower, which is frequently adorned with Chuseok-themed illumination.

Korean Folk Village:

Take a day trip to the Korean Folk Village in nearby Yongin to experience rural Korean life, traditional performances, and hands-on activities.

Hanbok Experience:

Rent a hanbok and stroll through the city’s historic streets or palace grounds for a truly immersive experience.

Stay at Hanok:

For a unique experience, book a stay at a hanok guesthouse, where you can enjoy traditional Korean architecture and hospitality.

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