Sharing samgyetang ahead of chobok

On Tuesday, hundreds of elderly residents gathered at Duryu Park in Daegu to partake in a traditional ritual ahead of chobok, the first of the three “bok” days marking the peak of summer in South Korea. Volunteers distributed free servings of samgyetang, a nourishing ginseng-infused chicken soup, to long queues of seniors eager to prepare their bodies for the sweltering heat. The event took place just one day before chobok, which is celebrated nationwide as a time to consume samgyetang to combat the summer heat through the ancient Korean practice known as iyeol chiyeol, “fighting heat with heat.” The tradition of consuming samgyetang during the bok days dates back centuries and has become deeply embedded in Korean culture. Chobok, meaning “first heat,” is followed by jungbok (“middle heat”) and malbok (“last heat”), collectively forming the hottest stretch of the year. During these periods, Koreans believe that drinking samgyetang helps replenish energy and protect against the intense summer sun. The soup, made with whole chickens, ginseng, garlic, and jujubes, is considered both a culinary delicacy and a remedy for fatigue. At Duryu Park, the Love Rice Car, a local volunteer organization dedicated to providing meals to the community, prepared 1,500 bowls of samgyetang specifically for the event. The group’s efforts drew large crowds, particularly among the elderly, who lined up patiently under the midday sun. Many participants expressed appreciation for the gesture, noting that such communal activities offer both physical sustenance and social connection during the hot season. The event was organized as part of broader cultural preservation initiatives aimed at keeping traditional customs alive in modern society. While younger generations increasingly rely on convenience foods, many older Koreans continue to observe seasonal rituals passed down through generations. Local officials have supported these traditions, recognizing their role in fostering community spirit and maintaining cultural identity. Volunteers at the event emphasized the importance of sharing food as a means of strengthening bonds within neighborhoods. Some attendees spoke of how the act of gathering to eat together helped ease feelings of isolation, especially among the elderly. Others mentioned that the preparation of samgyetang itself was a laborious process requiring careful attention to detail, making the shared experience even more meaningful. The Love Rice Car has been active in Daegu for several years, organizing similar events throughout the year. Its founder described the chobok gathering as one of the most anticipated occasions due to its deep-rooted significance in Korean life. The group plans to host additional events later this summer, including a celebration for jungbok, which will take place in early August. As temperatures rise across South Korea, the demand for samgyetang is expected to increase, with many restaurants and markets preparing special promotions around the bok days. However, concerns over rising costs of ingredients, particularly ginseng, have led some vendors to raise prices slightly. Despite this, the popularity of the dish shows no signs of waning, with many Koreans viewing it as essential to surviving the summer months. In recent years, there has been growing interest in adapting traditional practices to contemporary lifestyles. Some health experts have encouraged moderation in samgyetang consumption, citing potential risks for individuals with high blood pressure or other conditions. Nevertheless, the majority of participants at Duryu Park viewed the soup as a necessary and cherished part of the summer season.