The Korean holiday known as 추석 (秋夕 / Chuseok) is rapidly approaching. For those of you not in the know, 추석 is something akin to Thanksgiving in America (and I’m assuming Canada, though I’ve never celebrated Thanksgiving in Canada)…though there’s more to it than that. Check this site if you want more info on what 추석 actually is.
For me, 추석 means three things. The first thing, is three days off in a near abandoned city. This year, the holiday falls on the weekend, meaning I only get one bonus day off…damn.
The second thing is a nonstop alcohol party. Since everyone departs Seoul and most shops are closed, there’s not really a lot to do save for get my drink on. I have already begun stocking up for the party that will commence. Additionally I’ve been on detox the past few days, so Friday, Saturday, and Sunday aught to be a hoot.
Thirdly, and most importantly (since this is where today’s title comes from) 추석 means free loot. At 추석 people exchange gifts with each other, and as a teacher I recieve a fair amount of gifts from parents who want to curry my favor. Today I recieved my first gift of the holiday season.
Apparently I stink, have greasy hair, and bad breath.
Now this gift is pretty common. In America students bestow totally useless crap upon teachers: silver bells that say “World’s Best Teacher,” ceramic apples, and crap made out of wicker. Here in Korea gift sets are a tad more practical.
Aside from personal hygine products, other common gift sets include (I swear I am not making any of this up): fruit, seasame oil, SPAM, and alcohol. God I wish I got some SPAM or alcohol, especially since I just purchased toothpaste, soap, and shampoo on Monday.
