These are important days in South Korea: it’s Chuseok, the harvest festival. Traditionally, many people use this time to get together with their families, wherever they may be, although more and more people celebrate Chuseok in their own way. In terms of its importance as a time to be with loved ones, it’s perhaps the closest thing Korea has to the Christmas holidays celebrated in many countries, including Spain.
You’re finally writing about Korea, Goguma
Fair enough, I know I don’t write about Korea that often. But this seems like a good opportunity to learn about a very Korean tradition. I’ll also share what to keep in mind if you’re visiting as a tourist. If you live in Korea, you probably already know a bit more about Chuseok.
Okay, what should I keep in mind?
Many people who live in Seoul have family outside the capital and take this opportunity to visit them. So if you’re travelling by car, be patient. Really patient: be prepared to spend hours in the huge traffic jams that form every year.
“Fine, I’ll take the train,” you might think. Good luck getting a ticket. If you want to travel by KTX, Korea’s high-speed train, keep an eye on the special Chuseok ticket sales and book as soon as you can. The most popular trains fill up quickly, so planning a last-minute trip at this time of year can be tricky.
What do Koreans do? Do they exchange gifts like at Christmas?
There is a similarity to Christmas in that some families exchange gifts, but Chuseok doesn’t revolve around presents in quite the same way. For many people, it’s primarily a time to be with family. Some also visit their ancestors’ graves and hold ceremonies in their honour.
Visit graves? Like on All Saints’ Day?
Yes, in that respect it’s similar. Some families visit their ancestors’ graves and tidy them up, clearing away weeds if needed. Traditional food is also prepared, especially songpyeon, small filled rice cakes. Another dish you might come across at this time of year is toranguk, a soup made with taro.
What should you do if you’re visiting Korea during Chuseok?
I think one good option is to stay in Seoul. You may find it easier to get around than usual, but don’t expect the city to be empty: it’s a megacity, so there will always be people around. Some residents choose to spend Chuseok in the city, and tourists visit too.
That said, check opening hours before you head out, as some businesses close or operate on reduced hours during the holiday.
If you haven’t already planned a trip elsewhere in the country, I’d avoid long-distance travel. And if you do need to travel, I wish you luck — you might need it!
Had you heard of Chuseok before? What do you think of this tradition? Let me know in the comments. Happy Chuseok, everyone!
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Photo: Pexels.