South Korean Women Prepare For Korean Thanksgiving With Fake Arm Casts

Korean Thanksgiving, also known as Chuseok, is a time of delicious food, family, and grueling housework for the women of South Korea.

In lieu of the holiday, fake arm casts have emerged as a popular item among women looking to avoid housework, according to The Korea Times.

Fake casts have reportedly been on the market for around 10 years for people who need props for stage performances or parties, but recently there’s been an increase of women purchasing them to simply enjoy the holiday.

"Usually, sales soar ahead of April Fools' Day, but recently they have been selling like hot cakes before Chuseok," stated one online vendor.

Chuseok is considered one of the most important holidays in South Korea. When it nears the time, my own mother doesn’t answer my calls because she’s so busy with preparing an assortment of foods for the party that’s to be held in my childhood home.

About three-fourths of Korea’s population travels for their Chuseok festivities, resulting in major traffic jams throughout, according to Stripes Korea.

Unfortunately, the major holiday takes a toll on the women of South Korea, as they’re expected to prepare the food.

"I don't want to use this ruse," wrote one blogger.

“But I fully understand why some women use the fake casts. I hate this terrible holiday culture that exploits women, with men taking it for granted that women will do all the household chores."

Due to “tradition,” those who really injured their arms feel guilty about not being able to help with the household chores.

"I had a real arm injury last year so I wore the real cast on Chuseok. So my mother-in-law and other relatives worked instead of me. I didn't work but I was not happy. The problem is not just physical work but mental stress that makes me feel guilty when I don't work. It's sad," stated one woman.