Who commissioned the Samguk Sagi, the chronicle that records the Gabae tradition linked with Chuseok?

King Injong of Goryeo commissioned the Samguk Sagi, which records the Gabae tradition linked with Chuseok’s historical background.

The work was compiled by Kim Busik and a team of scholars during the Goryeo dynasty. It was completed in 1145 under the reign of Injong, whose court sought an official history of the earlier Korean kingdoms.

The chronicle’s Silla material includes the account of Gabae, a competition traditionally connected with the early development of autumn harvest celebrations. Modern descriptions of Chuseok often cite this record when explaining the festival’s deep historical roots.

King Injong should not be confused with King Sejong, the Joseon ruler associated with major scientific and linguistic achievements, including the creation of Hangul. The Samguk Sagi belongs to the Goryeo period, centuries before Sejong’s reign.