It’s another year of Chuseok (추석). Have you ever wondered when the Chuseok started and how it begins?
The origins of Chuseok can be traced back to Korea’s past as an agrarian society. Chuseok also known as Hangawi (한가위), which means the 15th day of 8th month according to the lunar calendar.
According to popular belief, Chuseok originates from Gabae (가배) which started during the reign of the third king of Silla (실라) when it was a month-long weaving contest between two teams. On the day of Gabae, the team that had woven more cloth won and would be treated to a feast by the losing team. It is believed that weaving competition, archery competitions and martial arts demonstrations were held as part of the festivities. Can you imagine having this huge festival back in Silla dynasty?
Many scholars also believe Chuseok may originate from ancient shamanistic celebrations of the harvest moon. New harvests are offered to deities and ancestors, which means Chuseok may have originated as a worship ritual. In some areas, if there is no harvest, worship rituals are postponed, or in areas with no annual harvest, Chuseok is not celebrated.
Traditional Custom
There are two majors traditions related to Chuseok which are Charyae (차례) and Seongmyo (성며) which is usually accompanied by Beolcho (벌초).
Charyae (차례)
It is a ancestor memorial services at home also known as Jesa (재사) symbolizing the returning of favors and honoring ancestors and past generations. The rite involves the gathering of families in holding a memorial service for the ancestors through harvesting, preparation and presentation of special foods as offerings.
Seongmyo (성며) & Beolcho (벌초)
This two are also done around Chuseok week. Seongmyo is a visiting to ancestral grave and Beolcho is the activity to remove the weeds around the grave to clean their ancestor’s site.
The most important thing is Korean can celebrated this important day with the family. I really hope this Covid-19 will be gone forever so that every one of us can meet their loved one soon.
Happy Chuseok Day ~ 즐거운 추석 잘 보내세요 ~
Written by
ALISYA
알리샤 이 | 양은수
Online Supporter of Korean Embassy in Kuala Lumpur 2021
Korea.net Honorary Reporter 2021
Follow me in: @alisyanasir
MyDaehan 🍂 