Korean National Holidays

South Korea has a long list of national holidays throughout the year.

New Years Day

January 1st

Referred to as Solar New Years by most Korean citizens.

Lunar New Year

1st day of the 1st month on the Lunar Calendar

One of the most celebrated holidays in Korea (and east Asia). Visiting family, worshipping ancestors, eating traditional Korean dishes and taking part in century’s old traditions all come to life during this color national holiday.

Korean Independence Day

March 1st

Koreans observe the anniversary of the March 1st, 1919 Independence Movement against Japanese rule.

Arbor Day

April 5th

On this day, government officials, teachers, school children and thousands of Koreans throughout the country plant trees in accordance with the government’s reforestation program. Note: Not all Korean schools view Arbor Day as a true national holiday.

Children's Day

May 5th

This is the day that Korean parents spoil their children with gifts, treats, games and trips to theme parks, zoos and other prominent areas that are of interest to younger children.

Eighth day of the fourth month on the Lunar Calendar

Solemn rituals are held at Buddhist temples, and the day’s festivities are climaxed by a number of famous lantern parades across the country.

Memorial Day

June 6th

On this day the nation pays tribute to its war dead. Memorial services are held at the National Cemetery in Seoul.

Constitution Day

July 17th

This day commemorates the adoption of the Republic of Korea Constitution in 1948. Note: As of 2008 Constitution Day is no longer a Korean national holiday. Korea will continue to celebrate this day but government offices, schools and private businesses will remain open.

Liberation Day

August 15th

In 1945, Korea was liberated from Japan after 35 years of colonial rule. The day also marks the 1948 establishment of the government of the Republic of Korea.

Chuseok

Korean Thanks Giving

14th – 16th of the eighth month on the Lunar Calendar

The longest and most important national holiday of the year. During the 3 day Chuseok holiday, Korean’s gather with family members to honor their deceased ancestors, clean off their ancestors tombs, give food and drink offerings, and pray.

National Foundation Day

October 3rd

This day marks the founding of Korea by Tan-gun (God-King) in 2333 B.C. Korean’s celebrate over 4000 years of history during this holiday.

Christmas Day

December 25th

Christians and other citizens celebrate this holy day as in the West. 

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