As we embrace the festive spirit of Chuseok, let’s delve into the rich tapestry of traditions and stories that define the Korean Thanksgiving Day and explore the myriad ways in which it is celebrated. Immerse yourself in the tale, and then engage with us by answering a question for an opportunity to WIN one of three gift coupons from DAEBAK.CO, a premier destination for K-snacks and merchandise.
Chuseok Edition: Discover and engage with us for a chance to experience the diverse flavors and textures of Korea!
Chuseok Historical Background
Korean Thanksgiving Day, also known as Chuseok, is one of the most significant and celebrated traditional holidays in South Korea.
It is believed that Chuseok originated from shamanistic celebrations of the harvest moon. Ancient Koreans believed that the full moon had the power to bring about a bountiful harvest. The festival has evolved over the centuries, incorporating various customs and traditions, but its essence as a harvest festival remains intact.
During Chuseok, Koreans engage in various traditional activities and rituals, and here are some of the key elements of the celebration:
1. Charye (Ancestral Rites)
Charye is a ritual performed to honor ancestors. Families visit their ancestral hometowns and gather at the graves of their forebears to perform ancestral rites, which involve cleaning the graves and offering food, fruits, and rice wine.
2. Songpyeon
A distinctive feature of Chuseok is the preparation and sharing of Songpyeon, a type of half-moon-shaped rice cake. Families gather together to make these rice cakes, filling them with ingredients like sesame seeds, honey, sweetened red bean paste, and chestnuts. Additionally, it is believed that making beautiful Songpyeon will bring one a bright and beautiful future.
3. Hanbok
Many Koreans wear Hanbok, traditional Korean clothing, during Korean Thanksgiving Day. The vibrant and colorful attire is a symbol of Korean cultural heritage and is worn with pride during the festivities.
4. Folk Games
Various folk games are played during Chuseok, such as Ssireum (Korean wrestling), archery, and Yut Nori (a traditional board game). These games are not just for entertainment but also serve to strengthen communal bonds.
5. Ganggangsullae
This is a traditional Korean circle dance performed by women under the full moon. It is designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of South Korea and is performed in many regions during Chuseok.
Chuseok in Modern Day
This year, Chuseok falls on September 29, and the surrounding days are also recognized as holidays. Usually spanning three days, the Chuseok holiday has been prolonged to a six-day continuous break this year. October 2 is marked as a unique, one-time holiday, followed by National Foundation Day on October 3.
In modern times, Chuseok is still widely celebrated across South Korea, with most people getting several days off from work to celebrate. The holiday sees mass migration as millions travel to their hometowns to be with their families, causing one of the largest annual mass migrations globally.
This also applies to the dazzling stars of the Kpop world, who pause their hectic schedules to celebrate. The way Kpop idols celebrate Chuseok provides a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of traditional Korean culture and the modern, global phenomenon of Kpop, such as:
1. Sharing Moments with Fans
Many Kpop idols take to social media to share their Chuseok celebrations with fans. During the time, they post pictures and messages, often dressed in traditional Hanbok, wishing their fans a happy and prosperous Chuseok. Not only that, some idols even host special live streams or release special content, allowing fans a more intimate look at how they celebrate this important holiday.
2. Special Broadcasts and Performances
Television networks in South Korea often broadcast special Chuseok programs, featuring performances by popular Kpop groups. These performances are eagerly anticipated by fans and usually include renditions of the groups’ hit songs, dance performances, and sometimes, traditional Korean music and dance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Korea.
3. Time with Family
Like most Koreans, Kpop idols also value spending time with their families during Chuseok. Many idols travel back to their hometowns to be with their families, participate in ancestral rites, and enjoy traditional Korean foods. This is a precious time for idols, who often have packed schedules, to relax and reconnect with their roots.
4. Giving Back
Some Kpop idols and their fan clubs organize charity events and make donations during Chuseok to give back to the community. They donate food, daily necessities, and sometimes, money to those in need, reflecting the spirit of sharing and gratitude inherent in the Chuseok celebrations.
For instance, BTS Jimin’s father reportedly made a donation in his son’s name this Chuseok. He has been consistently donating food for low-income households in the region over the past three years since September 2020.
5. Reflection and Renewal
Chuseok is also a time for reflection for many Kpop idols. They take this time to rest, recharge, and set new goals for the future. The break allows them to return to their busy lives with renewed energy and inspiration.
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