South Korea, known for its vibrant culture and deep historical roots, is a country that harmonizes tradition with modernity. The country’s history spans thousands of years, marked by dynasties, invasions, and eventual division into North and South Korea after World War II. Amidst these changes, South Korea has maintained rich cultural traditions, one of which is Chuseok, often referred to as the Korean harvest festival. At the heart of this celebration is Yakgwa, a beloved traditional sweet that carries with it both flavor and symbolism.
A Brief History of South Korea
South Korea's history begins with ancient kingdoms like Gojoseon (2333 BCE), Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, which formed the basis of Korean identity. The Unified Silla Dynasty (668-935) was a golden age of cultural development. It was during this period that many of the traditions associated with modern Korea began to take shape.
Fast forward to the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), Confucianism became the official ideology, shaping Korea’s values, governance, and societal norms. The 20th century brought turmoil with Japanese occupation (1910–1945), the Korean War (1950–1953), and the eventual establishment of the Republic of Korea in 1948. Despite a tumultuous history, South Korea emerged as an economic powerhouse and cultural beacon, with traditions like Chuseok keeping its ancient customs alive.
Chuseok: The Harvest Festival
Chuseok (추석), also known as Hangawi (한가위), is one of South Korea's most important traditional holidays, celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, typically falling in September or early October. The holiday is often referred to as the Korean Thanksgiving and is a time for families to come together, pay homage to their ancestors, and give thanks for the autumn harvest.
The word Chuseok translates to "Autumn evening," but its older name, Hangawi, comes from "Han" (big) and "Gawi" (middle), referring to the grand celebration held during the middle of autumn.
The celebration has roots in Korea’s agrarian past, where communities would gather to share the bounty of the harvest. A central aspect of Chuseok is Charye (차례), a ceremonial ritual where families honor their ancestors by offering food and drinks at an altar. Common offerings include freshly harvested fruits, rice, and traditional dishes like songpyeon (half-moon shaped rice cakes).
As the Korean saying goes, "더도 말고 덜도 말고 한가위만 같아라," meaning, "May all your days be as bountiful as Hangawi (Chuseok)." This highlights the importance of the festival, symbolizing prosperity, gratitude, and family unity.
Yakgwa: The Sweet Taste of Tradition
Yakgwa (약과), also called gwajul (과줄), is a traditional Korean confectionary made from wheat flour, honey, sesame oil, and ginger, and deep-fried to achieve its signature crispy texture and golden hue. The name "Yakgwa" translates to “medicinal confectionery” from "yak" (약), meaning medicine, and "gwa" (과), meaning confection. Historically, honey was considered medicinal in Korea, and sweets made with it were thought to have health benefits.
Yakgwa has been a part of Korean culture since the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392), often enjoyed during important celebrations and ceremonies. In the past, Yakgwa was considered a luxury, reserved for royalty and nobility due to its costly ingredients. Today, however, it is enjoyed by all Koreans, especially during festive occasions like Chuseok.
The process of making Yakgwa is intricate and steeped in tradition. The dough is shaped into flower-like designs before being fried and soaked in a honey syrup. This gives the sweets a rich, sweet flavor and chewy texture, making them a perfect complement to the savory and earthy dishes often served during Chuseok.
The Symbolism of Yakgwa in Chuseok
Yakgwa is not just a treat; it’s symbolic of the values upheld during Chuseok. Its sweetness reflects the joy of family reunion, while its meticulous preparation represents the care and respect given to one’s ancestors. By including Yakgwa in the Chuseok offerings, families pay homage to both tradition and the cycles of nature that sustain them.
Key Korean Words from Chuseok and Yakgwa
- 추석 (Chuseok) – Korean harvest festival or Thanksgiving.
- 약과 (Yakgwa) – Traditional honey cookie, literally "medicinal confectionery."
- 차례 (Charye) – Ancestral ritual performed during Chuseok.
- 한가위 (Hangawi) – An older name for Chuseok, meaning "big middle."
- 송편 (Songpyeon) – Half-moon shaped rice cakes traditionally made during Chuseok.
Conclusion
Chuseok is more than just a holiday—it’s a living testament to Korea’s enduring relationship with nature, family, and tradition. The inclusion of Yakgwa in the celebrations is a reminder of the harmony between past and present, and the simple joys of sharing food with loved ones. As South Korea continues to evolve, its festivals and traditional foods like Yakgwa remain a vital link to its rich cultural heritage.
In the spirit of Chuseok, we can say, "May all your days be as sweet as Yakgwa and as plentiful as the Chuseok harvest."