How do people celebrate birthdays in Korea?

Join us for a special summer program celebrating Korean birthday traditions through story, art, and tteok cupcake making.

Award-winning author and illustrator Hyewon Yum will read her picture book A Spoonful of the Sea (나의 첫 번째 미역국) aloud and share the meaning behind the Korean birthday tradition of eating miyeokguk, or seaweed soup, a dish often served on birthdays to honor mothers. Children will then create their own birthday card inspired by her signature illustration style.

Jennifer Ban of Rice Blossoms will lead a hands-on tteok cupcake making session. In Korean culture, tteok is often shared during celebrations as a symbol of good wishes and togetherness. Each child will decorate two tteok treats with playful toppings drawn from the story.

A book signing with Hyewon Yum will follow the program. Families are welcome to bring their own copy of A Spoonful of the Sea for signing.

Friday, August 7, 2026, 4:00–5:30 PM
Saturday, August 8, 2026, 3:00–4:30 PM