The Dog Days of Summer

We're currently in the midst of the hottest period of summer (Sambuk), according to the Korean calendar. Chobuk is the first day of this period, and Malbok is the last. Koreans traditionally eat certain foods during this time for stamina and cooling. Samgyetang is a soup with a whole chicken stuffed with sticky rice, ginseng, garlic and jujubes. The idea is to fight the heat with heat.
We found the tasty soup in packaged and deli forms at E-mart.
As Americans, we have our own traditional means of cooling ourselves: popcycles and ice cream. At E-mart you can fill a lined bag with popcycles of your choice. Kiwi, red bean, and green tea flavors were among the mix.
Dog meat provides stamina and energy. Two weeks ago seemed to be the peak in dog meat consumption. Many Koreans from my office were eating it. Gyeongdong Market showcased fresh meat, as shown by the intact paw.