First Meeting of the Youth Club of Oriental Cultures in the 2025–2026 Academic Year

15.10.2025

On October 10, the Youth Club of Oriental Cultures held its first meeting of the new academic year – and we began it with a true celebration.

Theme of the meeting: “Mooncake for Three: How Japan, Korea, and China Share the Festival?”

Together, we immersed ourselves in the enchanting world of East Asian autumn moon festivals – 中秋节 (Zhōngqiū jié) in China, 추석 (Chuseok) in Korea, and 月見 (Tsukimi) in Japan. We explored the mythology and symbolism of the Moon, and discussed how each culture honors the harvest, family unity, and the beauty of the night sky in its own unique way.

The meeting was held in a hybrid format – some participants gathered in a classroom to enjoy the festive atmosphere, while others joined online, adding an international dimension to the discussion.

During the session, we explored legends surrounding the origins of the festival, the Moon rabbit, and harvest spirits; traditional celebrations in the three countries and their modern transformations; festive dishes; and cultural differences in how the Moon brings people together through art, poetry, and gastronomy.

The event featured vibrant presentations by third-year student Sofiia Nedohybtchenko, first-year master’s student Valeriia Zapotieieva, Associate Professor Yuliia Malakhova, and master’s student from Nagasaki University (Japan) Oleksandra Shustval. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our speakers for giving us the opportunity to learn more about the traditions of the Far East!

The meeting concluded with warm wishes and the soothing aroma of green tea.

Thanks everyone who joined our “moonlit” gathering – many more exciting topics and discoveries lie ahead!

Youth Club of Eastern Cultures