Korean Cultural Center to Host Souq Chuseok

The Korean Cultural Center in Abu Dhabi will host Souq Chuseok, to mark Chuseok, one of Korea’s most significant traditional holidays.

This special cultural event will give visitors an immersive chance to experience Korea’s festive spirit. Taking place on Thursday, 2 October, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the Korean Cultural Center, this is your chance to experience a vibrant Korean holiday marketplace, make songpyeon and taste other traditional Korean foods.

Traditional Korean market atmosphere in Abu Dhabi

The event recreates the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of a traditional Korean market during the holiday. Like the open-air markets that come alive in Korea during Chuseok, “Souq Chuseok” features interactive food and cultural experiences. Participants will engage directly with the essence of Korean festive life.

Guests will cook and taste iconic Korean dishes that hold a special place during Chuseok and beyond:

• Bibimbap – Korea’s colorful mixed rice dish. It features seasoned vegetables, egg, and chili paste.

• Jeon (Korean savory pancakes) – Pan-fried delicacies enjoyed at festive gatherings.

• Songpyeon (half-moon rice cakes) – The symbolic food of Chuseok. Participants will handmake these and steam them over fresh pine needles.

Songpyeon has a distinctive half-moon shape.

It has long represented hopes for prosperity and family well-being. Made with freshly harvested rice, these rice cakes represent gratitude for the year’s harvest. They are also a prayer for abundance in the year ahead.

Families traditionally gather to prepare them together during Chuseok.

Beyond the food, the event highlights the deep cultural meaning of Chuseok.

Often referred to as ‘Korean Thanksgiving’,  Chuseok is a time for families to honor ancestors, share meals, and celebrate community bonds.

Visitors will not only learn to make traditional foods but will also discover the values of gratitude, togetherness, and joy at the heart of Korean festive traditions.

Director Lee Yonghee of the Korean Cultural Center emphasized: “Chuseok is one of Korea’s two most important traditional holidays. We are delighted to share its rich heritage with the people of Abu Dhabi. Through ‘Souq Chuseok,’ we hope both the Korean community and people in the UAE can experience the lively spirit of a Korean holiday marketplace. Taste traditional foods and take part in cultural practices that bring families together. Our goal is to create a space where cultures meet and celebrate harmony.”