By Honorary Reporter Wahida Asrani from Malaysia

The Korean Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Sept. 8 hosted the "Experience Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving)" program for 24 online supporters to share the cultural significance of the traditional holiday.

Ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung-bae (sixth from left in second row) on Sept. 8 poses for a group photo with online supporters at the "Experience Chuseok" program hosted by the Korean Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. (Korean Embassy in Malaysia)

The program began with a luncheon hosted by Ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung-bae, allowing interactions between the attendees and the ambassador and embassy staff in a relaxed setting. The food served featured traditional Chuseok favorites such as bulgogi (marinated stir-fried beef), jeon (pancakes) and japchae (stir-fried glass noodles).

A Korean Embassy staff member on Sept. 8 explains the traditional games played on Chuseok at a knowledge-sharing session of the "Experience Chuseok" program at the Korean Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. (Wahida Asrani)

After lunch, the participants gathered at the embassy's auditorium for a knowledge-sharing session on the origins, customs and significance of the holiday, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar. They learned about traditional dishes associated with the holiday including songpyeon, or rice cakes shaped like a half moon.

Online supporters on Sept. 8 play ddakji (paper tile flipping) at the "Experience Chuseok" program at the Korean Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. (Korean Embassy in Malaysia)

The program then moved from learning to more fun stuff as the group played the traditional games tuho (pitch pot) and ddakji (paper tile flipping).

Rather than viewing Chuseok simply as a Korean Thanksgiving, the supporters were able to understand the stories and cultural significance behind its traditions of family reunion, remembrance and gratitude passed down through generations.

ljyhwa@korea.kr

*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.