Chuseok, arguably the most significant holiday of the year in Korea, is upon us. Chusok falls on Aug. 15 of the lunar calendar, ushering in cooler temperatures as the brightness of the full moon lights a path for millions of cars traveling to and from hometowns and burial grounds. People look forward to visiting relatives, vacationing somewhere for the long weekend or eating home-cooked meals.
But what is there for the non-Korean living in Korea to do during this important holiday?
This year, Korea will enjoy a five-day weekend with Chuseok falling on Thursday, Sept. 15. The day before and after are typically national holidays. Chuseok is similar to the American Thanksgiving holidays, rooted in a celebration of the harvest and synonymous with a time to enjoy being with family.
There are certain foods that are most commonly associated with Chuseok, spanning a wide range of meats, vegetables and sweets. While traditionally homemade, expatriates in Korea have plenty of opportunities these food at their local restaurants -- albeit not on Chuseok day as most business establishments and restaurants will be closed.
Half-moon-shaped rice cakes or "Songpyeon" is the most symbolic dessert served on Chuseok. A family would prepare dough made with water and well-grinded powder. Small pieces of dough are ripped off into bitable sizes. The pieces are then filled with ingredients like sesame seeds, sweet red bean paste and chestnut. Honey or sugar is often added. Finally it is boiled with pine needles in between the rice cakes, preventing them from sticking to each other. The real essence of Songpyeon is not only the taste, but also the time and effort it takes to make them as families sit together and share their stories.
Stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables or "Japchae" is another popular dish served on Chuseok. It is a popular side dish with rice. Japchae is usually boiled glass noodle stir-fried with oil, traditional Korean black bean sauce, vegetables and meat. Sesame seeds are often sprinkled on top. The recipe for Japchae is very flexible because every family has a different preference when it comes to ingredients.
Korean style pancakes or "Jeon" is another delicacy. Made with a batter of flour and egg, jeon can contain meat, vegetables or fish and fried in hot oil for a crispy, savory finish. In particular, jeon is often enjoyed with "Makgeoli" which is a traditional cloudy white Korean alcoholic beverage made with rice.
Chuseok is celebrated with simple but exciting traditional games. In the past, multiple generations of a Korean family lived under one roof, from grandparents to grandchildren. Thus, games were created to involve many people and for all ages to be able to participate together.
"Ganggangsullae" is played when the moon light is brightest and is the most symbolic game of Chuseok. Ganggangsullae is a dance requiring participants to hold hands and dance in a circle. It was believed by Korean ancestors that dancing under the moon light brought about a successful harvest. Ganggangsullae was originally intended for women, but in recent times has become an event for everyone.
The game of "Ssireum," which is Korean wrestling, is another long-held tradition for the holiday. Two individuals wear a belt called "satba." The game is held in a circular ring filled with sand. The game begins as individuals kneel facing each other and firmly grabbing onto each others satba. The game is won by forcing the opponent out of the circle or making their knees touch the sand.
On Chuseok, families scattered all over the peninsula gather together, creating massive traffic jams to and from the city. Everyone in Korea should enjoy this festive time but avoid driving long distances during peak travel times. Procuring a bus, train or plane ticket prove to be more challenging than usual, so it is important to plan ahead. Chusok is probably the best time to drive in the city with so many people having migrated outward. Many businesses are open during the holidays, but it is important to check specific locations before venturing out.x
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