Seollal and Chuseok, Korea's big holidays, explained

In Korea, two holidays stand out for their cultural significance and nationwide observance: Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (often referred to as Korean Thanksgiving). These occasions are deeply rooted in ancestral traditions and family gatherings, shaping the rhythm of Korean life each year.

Seollal: welcoming the Lunar New Year

Seollal marks the first day of the lunar calendar, typically falling between late January and mid-February. In 2026, Seollal is observed from February 16 to 18. (kaiserstory.com)

Charye: ancestral rites

Families commence Seollal with charye, a ritual honoring ancestors. A table is set with an array of foods, including rice, soup, fruits, and traditional dishes. Family members perform deep bows, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for the year ahead. (kaiserstory.com)

Sebae: respect to elders

Following charye, younger family members perform sebae, a deep bow to elders, wishing them health and prosperity. In return, elders offer words of wisdom and sebaetdon (New Year's money) in crisp envelopes. (kaiserstory.com)

Tteokguk: the age-adding soup

A traditional dish during Seollal is tteokguk, a soup made with sliced rice cakes. Consuming a bowl symbolizes gaining a year in age, a custom deeply ingrained in Korean culture. (kaiserstory.com)

Traditional games and activities

Seollal is also a time for traditional games:

• Yutnori: A board game played with four wooden sticks.
• Jegichagi: A game where players kick a shuttlecock-like object to keep it in the air.
• Tuho: A game involving throwing sticks into a narrow container.

These activities foster family bonding and are enjoyed across generations. (kaiserstory.com)

Chuseok: celebrating the harvest

Chuseok, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, usually falls in September or October. In 2026, Chuseok is observed from September 24 to 26. (kaiserstory.com)

Charye and seongmyo: honoring ancestors

Similar to Seollal, Chuseok begins with charye. Additionally, families visit ancestral graves in a practice called seongmyo, where they clean the gravesites and offer food, paying respects to their forebears. (kaiserstory.com)

Songpyeon: the signature rice cake

A hallmark of Chuseok is songpyeon, half-moon-shaped rice cakes filled with ingredients like sesame seeds, red beans, or chestnuts. Families often gather to make songpyeon together, symbolizing gratitude and hopes for the future. (kaiserstory.com)

Folk games and performances

Chuseok is also a time for traditional games and performances:

• Ganggangsullae: A traditional circle dance performed under the full moon.
• Ssireum: Korean traditional wrestling.
• Folk music and mask dances: Various performances held in cultural villages.

These activities celebrate the harvest and foster community spirit. (kaiserstory.com)

Practical considerations for visitors

Transportation challenges

Both Seollal and Chuseok see mass migrations as people travel to their hometowns. Highways experience significant congestion, and securing train tickets can be extremely difficult, as they sell out quickly during special booking windows. (kangsports.com)

Business closures

Many businesses, including shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions, may close or operate on limited hours during these holidays. It's advisable to check the operating hours of specific venues in advance. (seoulinspired.com)

Alternative activities

For those in Korea during these holidays, consider visiting cultural sites that remain open, such as the National Folk Museum, which often hosts special events. Exploring less crowded areas or participating in holiday-themed cultural programs can also provide enriching experiences. (seoulinspired.com)

Both holidays center on family and ancestral rites, so cities can feel quiet while trains and buses fill up. If you visit around then, book transport early. For more on the customs involved, see traditions and etiquette and our Korean etiquette guide.