Chuseok holiday Songpyeon consumption linked to airway obstruction risks

Data from the National Fire Agency reveals a significant risk of airway obstruction during the Chuseok holiday, primarily caused by eating traditional rice cakes known as Songpyeon. Between 2023 and 2025, there were 225 emergency calls related to airway obstructions during the holiday period, resulting in 162 hospitalizations and 34 cases of cardiac arrest.

Statistics show that the elderly are most vulnerable, with those aged 60 and older accounting for 71% of hospitalizations. Specifically, individuals aged 80 and above represented 42% of those transported to hospitals. Children under the age of 10 also accounted for 16% of cases. Most incidents occurred within private homes, which accounted for 61.8% of emergency calls.

Health experts advise eating rice cakes in small pieces, chewing thoroughly, and avoiding talking or laughing while food is in the mouth. In the event of an obstruction, it is cautioned not to attempt to swallow water or more food to push the object down. Instead, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed for adults, while infants under 12 months require back slaps and chest thrusts.