Views
Chuseok seen through children's eyes
The Busan Children Newspaper held a contest to select the cover artwork for its autumn edition. Participants had to depict what Chuseok, Korea’s major autumn harvest holiday, means to them.
Here are the five award-winning entries. From joyful family gatherings to whimsical scenes, each piece displays the warmth and festive spirit of Chuseok.
[Grand Prize]
Title: My Family’s Bountiful and Peaceful Chuseok
Artist: Sumin Kim (3rd grader, Geoje Elementary School)
Explanation:
My painting was inspired by “Irworobongdo,” a folding screen from the Joseon Dynasty, traditionally placed behind the king, symbolizing wishes for the nation's peace and prosperity and abundant harvests for the people. In the same spirit, I wanted to express my wishes for my family’s health and happiness as we celebrate Chuseok, a holiday associated with abundance and gratitude. Along with the iconic elements of Irowobongdo—the sun, moon and five peaks—I wanted to depict the abundance of the autumn harvest. My family dressed in Hanbok, traditional Korean clothing, is also featured in the painting, capturing a joyful holiday moment and highlighting the beauty of Korean traditions. |
[Excellent Prize]
Title: Happy Chuseok with a Spoonful of Moon
Artist: Bomi Seo (6th grader, Dalsan Elementary School)
Explanation:
My painting captures a happy family moment, with everyone gathered together and enjoying the Chuseok holiday. By climbing the ladder to the moon, we get ingredients for songpyeon, half-moon-shaped rice cakes traditionally enjoyed during Chuseok, and make this special holiday treat together. |
[Excellent Prize]
Title: Happy Chuseok
Artist: Minha Kim (2nd grader, Sangdang Elementary School)
Explanation:
I painted a delightful Chuseok moment with my family, with a wooden boat floating on a clear river. Since the number seven symbolizes good luck, I included seven persimmons, a classic autumn fruit. |
[Participation Prize]
Title: Moon Rabbit Is Showering Us with Happy Songpyeon
Artist: Dayun Park (2nd grader, Gaya Elementary School)
Explanation:
I imagined a special Chuseok scene, in which a moon rabbit brings happiness and smiles to my family from the huge full moon. With songpyeon and sparkling stars raining down on us, my painting captures my family smiling together and enjoying a wonderful Chuseok night. |
[Participation Prize]
Title: My family Travels with the Moonlight Whale on Chuseok
Artist: Jiwoo Yun (6th grader, Mujeong Elementary School)
Explanation:
The moonlight whale travels across Busan’s vast ocean, carrying my family’s love, hope, smiles, health and happiness. In the prosperous spirit of Chuseok, I wish happiness and all the best to every family celebrating the holiday. |