Mandu are Korean dumplings that are typically filled with various combinations of meat and vegetables. The varieties may include tofu or shrimps, as well as meat-free versions. The most common choices are pork, beef, cabbage, kimchi, bean sprouts, onions, scallions, and mushrooms, but the ingredients can vary depending on the season.

Although there are many theories of their origin, it is not precisely known when mandu dumplings first appeared in South Korea, but they are associated with other types of stuffed dumplings found in Turkey, Central Asia, China, and Japan. Nowadays, these traditional dumplings are an everyday dish, but in the past, they were only served at the royal court or on special occasions. 

The base of this traditional Korean soup is made with anchovy or beef-based stock, but the star ingredients are mandu—traditional Korean crescent-shaped dumplings usually filled with beef and vegetables. The soup also mainly includes shiitake mushrooms and onions, or occasionally sliced tteok rice cakes.

In some parts of South Korea, manduguk is served on the first day of the Lunar New Year, a tradition that is believed to stem from the ancient belief that happiness was securely wrapped inside these bite-size dumplings. The soup is typically served garnished with sliced scallions and thin strips of eggs, while the side dishes include kimchi and other types of pickled vegetables.

Songpyeon are steamed South Korean rice cakes consisting of a rice flour shell which is tinted and wrapped around various fillings such as mung bean or sesame powder as well as creamy red bean or chestnut paste. The cakes are formed into half-moon shapes and are usually steamed on a bed of pine needles, which impart flavor and keep the cakes separated.

Songpyeon are traditionally served during Chuseok festival, the annual celebration of a good harvest season.