South Korea observes shifting Chuseok traditions and welfare efforts

As the Chuseok holiday approaches in South Korea, social trends and welfare activities highlight a shifting cultural landscape. Recent surveys indicate a decline in traditional practices, with only 30% of respondents planning to perform ancestral rites. Younger generations are increasingly distancing themselves from extended relatives; 64% of those in their 30s do not plan to visit relatives living apart, often citing intrusive personal questions regarding income or employment as a reason for avoiding gatherings.

Simultaneously, various organizations are conducting welfare activities to support vulnerable populations. In Geoje, veteran groups and local welfare centers have prepared traditional holiday meals for approximately 130 households, including low-income seniors. In South Chungcheong Province, the provincial assembly leadership visited social welfare facilities to provide support and discuss policy improvements.

However, some welfare sectors face challenges. Due to economic pressures and inflation, donations to community centers and free meal services have decreased. Some facilities report difficulty maintaining special holiday programs for multicultural children or providing continuous support for the homeless during the holiday period when many private organizations temporarily suspend operations.