Understanding Holidays in Korea

Understanding Holidays in Korea

 

If you live or have worked in Korea, you know that there are many holidays! Here is a guide to understanding the types of holidays in Korea.

Coming up quickly at the beginning of October is Chusok (Korean Thanksgiving) from October 4,5, and 6. However, right before this day on October 3 is the National Foundation Day which Korean people also celebrate. This means that October 3,4,5,6, and 9 (Hanegeul Day) are all holidays! Due to this long string of holidays, the government designated October 2 as a temporary holiday as well so that people would be able to take the entire week off and have a 10 day rest. So this year, you will notice that people will have October 2-9 off from work.

 

Official Holidays in Korea (National Holidays)

January 1 – New Year’s Day – Similar to other countries around the world, January 1, is recognized as an official holiday. Many companies and businesses rest on this day.

January 27-30 – Seollal – The celebration of the New Year according to the Lunar Calendar is an important day in Korea. This day is the start of the official new year, and although the Gregorian New Year is considered celebrated, many Korean people still believe the new year does not start until the Lunar New Year. During this time, most businesses are closed and many people travel to their hometowns to spend time with their families.

March 1 – Independence Day – This day, is a national holiday which celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which was signed on March 1, 1919 when the country was under Japanese occupation. Special events and ceremonies take place on this day.

May 3 – Budha’s Birthday – This day is on the 8^th day of the 4^th lunar month. It is celebrated as a national holiday in Korea.

May 5 – Children’s Day – This day is an official holiday, and there are many festivals and events on this day to celebrate children!

June 6 – Memorial Day – This day is a national holiday where people pay their respects to soldiers and civilians that gave up their lives protecting the country.

August 15 – Liberation Day – This day is a national holiday which celebrates the liberation of Korea from Japan.

October 3 – National Foundation Day – This day is an official holiday which commemorates the official founding of Korea in 2333BC by a legendary god, Dangun.

October 3-6 – Chuseok – This is a national holiday, one of the largest celebrated holidays in Korea. It gives thanks for a years of harvest. It is celebrated on the 15^th day of the 8^th lunar month. Many people call it the Korean Thanksgiving.

October 9 – Hangeul Day – This is the Korean Alphabet Day which is an official holiday. It celebrates the creation of the Korean alphabet.

December 25- Christmas Day – Like many other countries, Christmas is an official holiday and celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

 

We hope this guide to official holidays in Korea is helpful! Enjoy your holidays in Korea!