Mid-autumn Festival Celebrated in S. Korea

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Monday, September 23, 2002

Mid-autumn Festival Celebrated in S. Korea

Better-than-expected traffic conditions marked the end of the three-day Chusok (Mid-autumn Festival) period Sunday, as many South Koreans returned from pilgrimages to their hometowns.

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Better-than-expected traffic conditions marked the end of the three-day Chusok (Mid-autumn Festival) period Sunday, as many South Koreans returned from pilgrimages to their hometowns.

Although bumper-to-bumper traffic continued late into the night on some sections of major roads across the country, the much-feared chaos didn't materialize since people chose different days and times for their return trips, officials said.

They added that as many as 290,000 vehicles returned to Seoul, with more than two thirds of the 12-million population either visiting hometowns or resort areas during the holiday.

Seoul appeared to be returning to normal. Subways were gradually filled with passengers, streets bustled with activity and shops resumed business. Citizens geared up to go back to their everyday lives.

Most of them paid homage to their ancestors and held other family gatherings during the brief holiday interval, without significantly deviating from the traditional ways of observance.

However, this year's celebration was somewhat overshadowed by lingering aftereffects of Typhoon Rusa, which ripped through the country early this month.

Those in flood-ravaged areas shared their worries about the future with visiting family members. Some television programs continuously reminded the people of the grief-stricken flood victims.

Quite a few dedicated volunteers continued typhoon recovery work and held joint worship services with flood victims who lost their homes and graves of ancestors.

For those athletes getting ready to participate in the upcoming 14th Asian Games in Pusan, Chusok was also far from a joyous occasion. They spent day and night in gymnasiums, shedding beads of sweat in last-minute efforts towards their goals.

Organizers will put the final touches on preparations for the event this week.

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