For some,... family gatherings at Chuseok may not be all joyous,... with all the nagging and stress from other members of the family.
But there are places that offer these people refuge, the so-called "Nagging Shelters"
Our Han Soo-ah shares with us what they are.
Holidays like Chuseok are one of the few times each year that families can all gather together. However, there are many people who would prefer to spend the holidays alone. And one of the biggest reasons is the stress of the holiday.


“I am currently living alone, and my family lectures me so much when I go home. Though I appreciate them, I’m going to spend the holiday alone.”

Some people are planning to go on a trip or enjoy their own time.


"I think it's better to go on a trip over Chuseok rather than to spend it with my family."

According to one job portal survey, 54% of the respondents felt that the holiday was stressful. The number one reason was too much nagging from their families, about studying, employment and marriage.

In fact, many young Koreans are sharing “nagging menus" on online communities, complete with comments like "Please give me money if you want to lecture me” and different topics given a price like a food menu.

“For people who want to spend their holiday alone to avoid being bothered by their families, there are several different kinds of “Nagging Shelters” opening on Chuseok.”

The most popular place to use as a “Nagging Shelter” is a hotel. For people who want to enjoy the vacation alone, hotels have released various “Single Chuseok Packages”. Even without any friends, people can enjoy a full vacation with afternoon tea, a library and music.


"As more people enjoy a single lifestyle and spend money on themselves, many of them are visiting hotels alone."

Various study cafes and academies are also popular shelters. The Seoul City Job Cafe has decided to provide a free study room for young adults who are preparing for employment.
Many book cafes where books and beers can be shared are also open to customers over Chuseok.
A new word “Honchujoek ”meaning 'people who spend Chuseok alone', has gained popularity as the scenery of the holiday is changing.
Han Soo-ah, Arirang News.