Chuseok in Korea 2026: A Guide to Korean Thanksgiving

If you visit Korea in late September 2026, you may notice crowded train stations, colorful gift sets in stores and rice cakes called songpyeon everywhere.

The reason is Chuseok (추석), one of Korea’s most important traditional holidays.

Often called “Korean Thanksgiving,” Chuseok is a time for family, food, gratitude and remembrance.

Here is a simple guide for visitors.

When Is Chuseok in 2026?

In 2026, Chuseok Day is Friday, September 25, and the official holiday runs from September 24 to 26.

Chuseok falls on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, so the date changes every year.

It is also known as Hangawi (한가위) and has long been connected with the autumn harvest.

What Do Koreans Do During Chuseok?

Traditionally, many Koreans returned to their hometowns and spent Chuseok with family.

Some families perform Charye (차례), a traditional ritual honoring ancestors, or visit ancestral graves in a custom called Seongmyo (성묘).

However, not every Korean family follows these traditions today.

Modern families may simply eat together, travel or enjoy the holiday at home. Chuseok is a good example of how tradition and modern Korean life now exist together.

What Do Koreans Eat?

The best-known Chuseok food is songpyeon (송편).

These small rice cakes are traditionally filled with ingredients such as sesame seeds, beans or chestnuts and steamed with pine needles.

Families once commonly made songpyeon together before Chuseok. Today, many people buy them from markets or rice-cake shops.

Other holiday foods may include jeon (savory pancakes), meat dishes, vegetables and seasonal fruit.

Want to know more about Korea's best-known Chuseok food?

→ What Is Songpyeon? Why Koreans Eat It During Chuseok

Why Is Travel So Busy?

Chuseok is one of Korea’s busiest travel periods because millions of people travel to meet their families.

KTX trains, express buses and highways can become especially crowded.

If you plan to travel from Seoul to Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju or another city, arrange transportation as early as possible.

For international visitors, staying mainly in Seoul during the busiest part of the holiday can make travel much easier.

Visiting during the holiday? See our practical guide:

→ Traveling in Korea During Chuseok 2026: What Tourists Need to Know

Are Restaurants and Attractions Open?

Korea does not completely shut down during Chuseok.

Many tourist attractions, shopping areas and restaurants remain open, especially in popular destinations. However, some independent restaurants and shops may close or change their hours.

Palaces and cultural attractions may also hold special holiday programs.

The best rule is simple:

Check official opening hours before you visit.

What About Chuseok Gifts?

Before Chuseok, supermarkets and department stores fill with holiday gift sets.

Popular choices include hanwoo (Korean beef), fruit, health products, seaweed and practical food sets.

Gift giving is a modern part of Chuseok and usually expresses appreciation toward family members or people who have been helpful during the year.

Chuseok Tips for Foreign Visitors

Chuseok 2026: September 24–26
Chuseok Day: September 25
Must-try food: Songpyeon
Biggest travel issue: Long-distance transportation
Restaurants: Some may close
Best advice: Check schedules and opening hours in advance

Final Thoughts

Chuseok is more than simply “Korean Thanksgiving.”

It brings together harvest traditions, family gatherings, food, gratitude and remembrance, while modern Koreans continue to create new ways of celebrating it.

For travelers, Chuseok can be a fascinating time to experience Korea beyond ordinary sightseeing.

Try songpyeon, visit a cultural attraction and enjoy the special holiday atmosphere.

And if you meet someone during Chuseok, say:

즐거운 추석 보내세요!
Jeulgeoun Chuseok bonaeseyo!
“Have a happy Chuseok!”

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