After an endless, hot summer—especially one like this year—we have all been longing for the tickling breezes, glowing leaves, and sparkling daylight of the next season. September, the month that finally lets you escape from the long summer, is not only welcomed for its transition to autumn but also for one of South Korea’s biggest national holidays, Chuseok. Chuseok is a mid-autumn harvest festival and a three-day holiday in South Korea celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar when the moon is full. Often called “Korean Thanksgiving,” Chuseok is deeply rooted in the history of sharing the harvest and showing gratitude to nature. When celebrating Chuseok, one place that captures the rich history and spirit of the holiday is Buyeo, the site of the ancient Baekje kingdom.
Located in South Chungcheong Province, Buyeo was once the capital of Baekje, one of Korea’s three major ancient kingdoms, which thrived from 18 BC to 660 AD. Today, Buyeo is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Gongsanseong Fortress and the Baekje Historic Areas. For those wanting to explore the history of Chuseok and experience Korea’s culture through festivals and workshops, Buyeo is the perfect place to visit in September.
Buyeo is home to many historically significant sites. One such place is Gongsanseong Fortress, a medieval fortification that protected the Baekje king between 478 and 538 AD. The fortress offers stunning views of Buyeo and its surroundings, and during Chuseok, it hosts traditional performances and reenactments to celebrate the holiday.
Another notable destination is Baekje Cultural Land, a theme park that recreates the vivid palaces, towns, and temples of the Baekje kingdom. Visitors can be engulfed in Korea's rich history through interactive experiences and cultural events, especially during festivals like Chuseok.
Buyeo is also famous for its scenic natural spots. The Nakhwaam Rock and Baengmagang River are known not only for their breathtaking beauty but also for the tragic legend of the 3,000 Gungnyeo (palace women) during the fall of Baekje. Around 660 AD, when the kingdom was on the verge of collapse, 3000 Gungnyeo threw themselves from the Nakhwaam Rock into the deep water of the Baengmagang River, covering their faces with their skirts to avoid the humiliation of defeat. The red skirts were said to resemble falling flowers, giving the site its name—Nakhwaam, which translates to "The Rock of Falling Flowers." Today, traditional boat rides and folk music performances are held here to honor Baekje’s legacy and celebrate seasonal holidays like Chuseok.
In addition to these historical sites, Buyeo offers a range of activities to enjoy during Chuseok. Visitors can participate in traditional craft workshops, including pottery making, mask painting, and calligraphy. Chuseok markets and food-tasting events feature seasonal vegetables, traditional snacks like Songpyeon, and unique Baekje-era specialties such as rice pancakes and Yukhoe. However, the highlight of Buyeo’s Chuseok celebrations is the moon-viewing ceremonies and lantern festivals. These events, held at historic sites around Buyeo, allow visitors to appreciate both the beauty of the full moon and the deep history of Korea, while being absorbed into the vibrant festivals and cultural traditions unique to Chuseok.
Buyeo’s combination of historical significance and rich cultural traditions makes it a perfect destination for celebrating Chuseok. The region offers visitors an opportunity to travel back in time to the days of the once splendidly thriving Baekje kingdom while becoming a part of Korea’s largest national festival. As Chuseok fills the nation with joy and celebration, Buyeo invites all to explore its heritage, gratitude, and the endless beauty of Korea’s rich traditions.
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