Tteokguk is a traditional Korean soup made with thinly sliced rice cakes called tteok. It is typically served during the Lunar New Year celebration, symbolizing the gaining of a year in age and the hope for good fortune in the coming year. The soup is often made with a clear broth, usually from beef or anchovy, and garnished with ingredients like eggs, green onions, and seaweed. The rice cakes in tteokguk are chewy and provide a unique texture to the dish. Eating this soup is a cherished custom in Korea, representing new beginnings and the importance of family gatherings during festive occasions.