Chuseok 2025 in Korea

Chuseok 2025 in Korea: A Festival of Gratitude and Family Unity
Chuseok (추석) is one of the most important and beloved holidays in South Korea. Often referred to as the Korean Thanksgiving, it is a time to give thanks for the harvest, honor ancestors, and gather with family. In 2025, Chuseok falls on October 6, and with additional public holidays, Koreans will enjoy an extended week of rest and family reunions.
Traditions of the Holiday
The heart of Chuseok lies in family rituals and ceremonies. In the morning, Koreans perform ‘charye,’ a memorial service to honor their ancestors. Families prepare dishes and drinks once enjoyed by their late relatives, placing them on a ceremonial table. Afterward, many visit ancestral graves to clean and pay their respects, a practice known as ‘seongmyo.’
Food is central to Chuseok celebrations. The traditional dish is ‘songpyeon’ (half-moon rice cakes), filled with ingredients such as sesame seeds, chestnuts, or beans. Families often gather together to make these rice cakes, symbolizing harmony and happiness. Other festive foods include ‘jeon’ (savory pancakes), meat dishes, fish, fruits, and traditional sweets.
The Atmosphere of Chuseok
During Chuseok, the entire country comes alive with a special spirit. Despite heavy traffic and crowded transportation, there is an atmosphere of joy and anticipation as millions of people return to their hometowns. On the streets and in cultural centers, traditional games and performances can be seen, such as:
- Yutnori: a board game with wooden sticks
- Ssireum: traditional Korean wrestling
- Ganggangsullae: group circle dances under the full moon
Many people wear traditional Korean clothing, ‘hanbok,’ and exchange gifts such as fruit sets, meat, cosmetics, or delicacies with friends and colleagues.
Chuseok 2025 – A Special Year
In 2025, Chuseok coincides with other national holidays, creating a rare golden week for Koreans. This extended holiday gives families more time to travel, rest, and celebrate together. Cities slow down, with many businesses and offices closed, while the countryside fills with gatherings and festivities.
For visitors, this is a perfect opportunity to experience Korean traditions at their finest, taste authentic holiday foods, and witness how deeply family ties and cultural heritage are valued.
Symbolism of the Festival
Chuseok is more than just food and rest—it is a time of unity. It connects the past with the future, allowing elders to pass down traditions while younger generations express respect and gratitude. The warmth and closeness of this holiday make it one of the most cherished events in the Korean calendar.
In 2025, Chuseok will once again provide Koreans and visitors alike with the chance to embrace ancient culture, share moments with loved ones, and enjoy the beauty of autumn in Korea.