Chuseok is one of Korea’s biggest holidays. It's also known as the Korean Harvest Festival or Korean Thanksgiving Day. It falls on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. This year, that's from Monday, September 16th to Wednesday, September 18th. Chuseok celebrates the end of the autumn harvest. It’s a time for families to get together, honor their ancestors, and enjoy traditional foods.
Understanding the Lunar Calendar
Chuseok’s timing is based on the lunar calendar, which follows the moon’s phases. Unlike the Gregorian calendar with fixed dates, the lunar calendar changes with the moon. That’s why Chuseok’s date shifts each year but always occurs around the same time.
Historically, the lunar calendar was crucial for farming. Ancient people used it to figure out the best times for planting and harvesting crops. The moon's phases helped farmers plan their work. By following the lunar calendar, communities could stay in sync with nature’s rhythms, leading to better harvests.
History and evolution of Chuseok
Chuseok has been celebrated for over 2,000 years. It began with ancient rituals and harvest festivals. During the Joseon Dynasty, Chuseok transformed from a harvest festival into a more formal holiday. The Confucian values of the time emphasized family gatherings and honoring ancestors. This led to Chuseok being officially recognized as a public holiday.
In the 20th century, after the Korean War, Chuseok adapted as Korea modernized. Chuseok foods were commercialized and adjustments were made to fit modern life.
Charye (차례) - Ancestral Rites during Chuseok
A key part of Chuseok is charye, or ancestral rites. These ceremonies honor ancestors and are deeply rooted in Confucian values. Families set up a ritual table with traditional foods like fruits, vegetables, and rice cakes. The table is arranged according to specific guidelines to honor the ancestors.
During the rites, families offer food and drink to their ancestors, perform ceremonial bows, and say prayers. This strengthens the family bond and keeps families connected to their ancestors.
Songpyeon (송편) - Half-moon Shaped Rice Cakes
Songpyeon is a traditional rice cake made in the shape of a half-moon. The half-moon shape symbolizes abundance, a successful harvest, and the connection between the moon and the harvest.
So, if you ever get gifted a half-moon shaped rice cake, you can impress your Korean friends or family. They will appreciate your understanding of the rich traditions behind it.
Happy Chuseok!
