떡국 is a traditional Korean soup made with sliced rice cakes called 떡. It is typically enjoyed during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing the start of a new year and the hope for good fortune. The soup is often prepared with a clear broth, usually made from beef or anchovy, and garnished with ingredients like green onions, egg, and seaweed. The rice cakes in 떡국 are chewy and provide a unique texture to the dish. Eating 떡국 is believed to add a year to one's age, as it is associated with the celebration of the new year. This dish is not only delicious but also holds cultural significance in Korean traditions.