The Chuseok holiday is one of Korea’s biggest and most important holiday seasons. Traditionally the family-centered holiday celebrates the autumn’s harvest and gives thanks to the ancestors of families. The holiday is celebrated as a three-day holiday period with the days before and after Chuseok day a holiday.

Chuseok day for 2016 falls on September 15 this year and many businesses and attractions will thus close, as people head to their hometowns, from September 14 before reopening on September 19. With so many vacating the capital some even refer to Seoul as a ghost town during this period but don’t worry as some places like the royal palaces, will remain open and even host special events to mark the Chuseok holiday!

At the National Museum of Korea, the traditional namsadang entertainment troupe will be performing for visitors. In the olden days these wandering troupes were known for their entertaining acrobatics, singing, dancing, and acting which would entertain villages and cities all over Korea. The namsadang nori, with its entertaining masks, colorful outfits, lively music, and the theatrics of the performance is sure to prove a fascinating and entertaining occasion for all ages.

At the National Folk Museum, visitors can make traditional Korean paper called hanji, taste and even make certain Chuseok-related treats, and also engage in a number of traditional Korean activities and games such as top spinning, arm wrestling, and more. The Seoul Museum of History will have a doll show for families and also provide traditional games, performances and food. Namsangol Hanok Village just below Namsan, will also feature a rate of traditional Korean games, activities, and food and will also hold performances and an explanation of the ancestor memorial service and table that is usually prepared by families during this holiday. The beautiful Deoksugung Palace is putting on a special traditional Korean performance for families that showcases Korean traditional music, costume, and dance.

Even if you don’t take part in these activities, you’ll be happy to know that the royal palaces, Jongmyo Shrine, National Museum of Contemporary Art, and royal tombs will be offering free admission during Chuseok. Major movie theaters and major amusement parks will also be offering certain package deals with up to 40% in discounts. Other establishments offering discounts during this period include baseball games, golf courses, and major car rental companies. Hotels around Seoul will also be offering a number of different package deals for those looking to do a bit of “stay-cation” so check the hotel homepages for more information.

Even if you’re not in Seoul during Chuseok, you can experience some of its tastes at one of the many traditional markets such as Namdaemun Market or Gwangjang Market. There’s plenty of favorite dishes associated with this holiday around such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), seasoned roots, and also fresh fruits and vegetables associated with this overall autumn season such as apples, pears, and chestnuts. In the Jongno-3ga area, around Insadong and the Nakwon Music Arcade, there are many rice cake shops where you can try songpyeon, a glutinous rice cake with different fillings, which is commonly made and eaten together during chuseok.

Another great way to get into the chuseok spirit is through a hanok home stay. Hanoks are beautiful traditional Korean houses and many have been renovated as guesthouses. There are many different types found in different regions around Seoul but many of them are found close to the royal palaces. Check stay.visitseoul.net for more information about this unique experience!
Last but not least, visitors during this time will be happy to know that most public transportation will be temporarily expanded during this time! Check the Seoul Metro homepage to see operating hours during this period.