IMPORTANT DATES IN THE KOREAN CALENDAR
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Korea officially follows the Gregorian calendar, but traditional holidays are still based on the lunar calendar. The coexistence of the Gregorian calendar for official purposes and the lunar calendar for traditional festivities reflects a rich cultural heritage. Seollal and Chuseok hold significant cultural and familial importance, drawing millions back to their hometowns for cherished reunions and celebrations. This unique blend of old and new contributes to the vibrant tapestry of Korean society.
There are 11 public holidays, most of which have fixed dates. Some, however, are celebrated in accordance with the lunar calendar so change annually. Stores and businesses in Korea are typically open seven days a week and most holidays, except for major holidays such as Seollal (Lunar New Year's) and Chuseok. These are the major holidays to take into consideration when travelling to South Korea.
New Year's Day (1 January)
January 1st is observed as a public holiday in Korea, and many offices and business may close. People may send holiday messages to family and friends or attend New Year’s Eve parties. Many Koreans visit the coast or the mountains to watch the first sunrise of the year, but most festivities are reserved for the lunar new year holiday.
Lunar New Year (28 - 30 January 2025)
The Lunar New Year, known as Seollal in Korean, is one of Korea’s most important holidays. The first day of the lunar year, the day before and the day after are also considered holidays. As this 3-day celebration approaches, department stores and markets are crowded with last-minute shoppers and traffic between Seoul and the provinces is very heavy as people travel to their hometowns. Feasts are held with specially prepared food such as tteokguk (rice cake soup) and mandu guk (dumpling soup). Korean families enjoy spending time together by playing traditional games such as yunnori (traditional Korean board games), flying kites, or spinning tops. Visitors should be aware that many stores, restaurants, and other spots are closed at this time.
Independence Movement Day (1 March)
March 1st commemorates the brave and determined stand for independence against Japanese colonial rule. The Korean Declaration of Independence, proclaimed at Tapgol Park, marked a pivotal moment in the nation's history, igniting a widespread movement for freedom and self-determination. The establishment of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea symbolized the resilience and aspirations of the Korean people for sovereignty and liberty.
Children's Day (5 May)
Children’s writer and social activist Bang Jeong-hwan proclaimed the first Children’s Day in Korea in 1923. Since then, May 5 has been a day of celebration that honours children of all ages and the hopes for children to be nurtured with love and care. On this day, special events dedicated to children and family take place at city parks, amusement parks, zoos, cinemas, and many other places.
Buddha's Birthday
(5 May 2025 - Based on the Lunar Calendar)
Korea celebrates the birth of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month with elaborate and solemn rituals are held at many Buddhist temples across the country. The streets are also lined with lanterns, and Seoul residents enjoy the Lotus Lantern Festival and Parade on the weekend closest to the holiday.
Memorial Day (6 June)
On Memorial Day, the Korean equivalent to remembrance Sunday in the UK, Koreans show their patriotism by remembering the men and women who have given their lives for their country. While memorial services are held nationwide, the largest ceremony takes place at the National Cemetery in Seoul attended by the president and other government officials. Veterans and civilians are welcome at the ceremony. A siren sounds at 10:00hrs for one minute of silent prayer. Many homes are also adorned with the national flag, the Taegeukgi.
Liberation Day (15 August)
August 15th marks Liberation Day, commemorating a pivotal moment in Korean history when the nation regained its independence. This significant date symbolizes the end of Japanese colonial rule and the beginning of a new era of sovereignty and self-determination for Korea. Liberation Day is celebrated with various events and ceremonies across the country, honouring the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and reflecting on the journey towards national unity and prosperity.
Chuseok
16 - 18 September 2024
5 - 8 October 2025
Also called Hangawi, Chuseok, also known as Korean Thanksgiving Day, is a major traditional holiday in Korea celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. It is a time for families to come together, express gratitude for the year's harvest, and honor their ancestors. During Chuseok, Koreans gather to perform ancestral rituals called charye at the graves of their ancestors, share delicious food, such as songpyeon (rice cakes), and participate in various cultural activities and games. It's a joyous occasion that strengthens familial bonds and reinforces the importance of tradition and community. Many stores and restaurants are closed during this time, but traditional games such as ssireum (wrestling) and dances such as the ganggangsullae can be seen at folk festivals, and cultural sites such as palaces and museums hold events.
National Foundation Day (3 October)
National Foundation Day, known as Gaecheonjeol in Korea, is celebrated annually on October 3rd, marking the establishment of Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom, by Dangun on the 3rd day of the 10th lunar month in 2333 BC, the legendary founder and the son of Hwanin, the god of heaven, according to Korean mythology. On this day, Koreans reflect on their cultural heritage and national identity, often participating in various cultural events, ceremonies, and festivities to honour their country's history and legacy. National Foundation Day holds profound meaning for Koreans as it symbolizes the roots and beginnings of their nation. Simple ceremonies are held in several regions throughout Korea, namely at Chamseongdan Altar on top of Manisan Mountain on Ganghwado Island; Dangunjeon Shrine in Gokseong, Taebaeksan Mountain and Jeungpyeong; and Dangunseongjeon Shrine in Seoul.
Hangeul Day (9 October)
Hangeul Day, also known as Korean Alphabet Day, commemorates the creation and proclamation of the Korean alphabet, Hangeul, by King Sejong the Great in 1443. Celebrated annually on October 9th, it honours the linguistic heritage of Korea and the cultural significance of its writing system. This day serves as a reminder of King Sejong's visionary contribution to literacy and education, as Hangeul was designed to be easily learned and accessible to all, regardless of social status or education level. Various events, exhibitions, and contests are held to promote the beauty and importance of the Korean language and script. It's a time for Koreans to reflect on the power of language in shaping their cultural identity and to celebrate the enduring legacy of Hangeul.
Christmas (25 December)
Christmas is observed as a national holiday in Korea as in many other countries. To celebrate the festive season, Christmas trees and lights can be seen all over Korea.
This page was last updated on 19 April 2024 and therefore information may have since changed or been updated.
