Fo many Koreans, one of the most comforting parts of life is the ondol, the heated floor system that warms homes from the ground up. In winter, nothing feels better than sitting on a warm floor with a blanket and a cup of tea. Many visitors are surprised by how even and gentle the warmth feels compared to radiators or blow heaters.
Today is Thanksgiving in the U.S., and it always reminds me of how much it feels like Chuseok, Korea’s major harvest holiday. Both traditions center on family gatherings, sharing food, and expressing gratitude. Even the atmosphere is similar—busy kitchens, traveling to see loved ones, and favorite comfort dishes that only taste right on this day.
Lately in Korea, we’re seeing a strong blend of tradition and global influence. For example, the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁 / gyeong-bok-gung) continues to draw visitors from around the world, reminding us that our past still lives in our present. Meanwhile, the Korea Trade‑Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA / 코트라) says Korea is stepping into a new phase where K-culture exports (K-컬처 수출 / K-keol-che su-chul) will fuel consumer-goods growth.
Through this weekend, October 8–12, 2025, Seoul is hosting the Fall K-Royal Culture Festival (궁중문화축전) at its four historic palaces, including Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. The event features royal court music, dance, traditional craft workshops, and popular nighttime tours under autumn skies.
From Sept 25 to 28, Seoul will host the 2025 K‑Traditional Culture Festival in Seongsu, Seongdong District, spotlighting the evolution of Korean tradition into modern urban life. Over 30 artists will exhibit their interpretations of traditional daily life in the “Modern Korean Lifestyle” exhibition.
The most popular girls name for the last five years is Seo-Yeon. For boys it’s Min-Jun. This goes against the tradition of using a fortune teller who selects a name based on the Chinese zodiac. More here.