A taste of Chuseok brings Seoul's senior citizens and foreign students together

For generations, Korean families have gathered during Chuseok to make songpyeon, traditional half-moon-shaped rice cakes. Recently, this tradition brought together about 40 international students and 40 older residents in Seoul’s Seodaemun-gu. The event was organized by the Seodaemun-gu Family Center to help international residents learn about Korean culture while giving older residents an opportunity to share their experiences.

Participants worked in small groups, with two international students and two older residents at each table. The older residents taught the students how to shape the rice dough and add fillings such as sesame seeds and chestnuts. Many international students, including participants from the United States, China, and the Philippines, were making songpyeon for the first time. Some also learned about the meaning of Chuseok, including giving thanks for the harvest and honoring ancestors.

The gathering was more than just a cooking activity; it was also a cultural exchange. International students compared Chuseok with holidays in their own countries, such as Thanksgiving in the United States and Christmas and New Year celebrations in the Philippines. The program gave older residents a chance to pass Korean traditions to a younger generation while helping international students feel more connected to their local community.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source: https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10873129 

Comprehension

What traditional Korean food did the participants make?
How many international students and older residents joined the event?
Who taught the international students how to make songpyeon?
What are two traditional activities or meanings associated with Chuseok?
Why was the cultural exchange program organized?

Discussion

Have you ever participated in a traditional celebration from another country?
What traditional food does your family usually prepare during special holidays?
Why do you think it is important to preserve traditional customs?
Do you prefer making traditional food at home or buying it from a store? Why?
What holiday in your country is similar to Chuseok?
What can young people learn from older generations?
Do you think cooking is a good way to learn about another culture? Why?
How can international students become more connected to the local community?
What family tradition would you like to continue for future generations?
If you could teach a foreigner one Filipino tradition, what would you teach them?

Vocabulary

generation — a group of people who are around the same age or were born during a similar period
holiday — a special day or period when people celebrate or take time off
ancestor — a person in your family who lived a long time ago
harvest — the crops collected from farms after they have grown
exchange — the sharing of ideas, experiences, or culture between people
participant — a person who takes part in an activity or event
resident — a person who lives in a particular place
hands-on — involving direct participation or practical experience