Korea has a variety of holidays and festive days that provide opportunities for family gatherings and relaxation. Many of these holidays are based on the lunar calendar, meaning their dates change every year. In this article, we will explore Korea’s national holidays, major festive days, and the concept of substitute and temporary holidays.
1. Major Festive Days in Korea
1) Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day – Lunar Calendar: January 1st)
Seollal is one of the most important holidays in Korea, during which families gather to spend quality time together. People visit their relatives, exchange well wishes, and perform a traditional bow called sebae to show respect to elders. A special dish called tteokguk (rice cake soup) is eaten, symbolizing the addition of one more year to a person’s age. Families also enjoy traditional games such as yutnori (a board game played with wooden sticks). Seollal usually lasts for three days, and a large number of people travel to their hometowns to celebrate.
2) Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving – Lunar Calendar: August 15th)
Chuseok is another major festive day when families come together to spend time with one another. Traditional foods, including songpyeon (half-moon-shaped rice cakes), are prepared and shared. People also participate in folk games such as ganggangsullae (a traditional Korean circle dance). Like Seollal, Chuseok follows the lunar calendar, so the dates change every year. The holiday lasts for three days, allowing families time to reunite and celebrate.
2. National Holidays in Korea
National holidays are officially designated by the government, meaning public institutions and some businesses close on these days.
1) New Year’s Day (January 1st)
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the new year. Many people spend time with family and friends, setting goals for the year ahead.
2) Independence Movement Day (March 1st)
This day commemorates the March 1st Movement of 1919, when Koreans protested against Japanese colonial rule. Official ceremonies take place across the country, and people display the national flag to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for independence.
3) Children’s Day (May 5th)
A day dedicated to the happiness and well-being of children. Parents take their children to amusement parks, zoos, and other fun destinations to celebrate.
4) Buddha’s Birthday (Lunar Calendar: April 8th)
A significant day for Buddhists in Korea, with temples holding grand lantern festivals and ceremonies. Since this holiday follows the lunar calendar, its date changes each year.
5) Memorial Day (June 6th)
A day to honor fallen soldiers and those who sacrificed their lives for the country. A nationwide moment of silence is observed at 10:00 AM, and official memorial ceremonies take place.
6) National Liberation Day (August 15th)
This day marks Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule in 1945. Various ceremonies and celebratory events are held across the country.
7) National Foundation Day (October 3rd)
A holiday commemorating the legendary foundation of Korea by Dangun, the mythical founder of Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom.
8) Hangeul Day (October 9th)
Hangeul Day celebrates the invention and proclamation of the Korean alphabet (Hangeul) by King Sejong the Great. Events promoting Korean language and culture take place nationwide.
9) Christmas Day (December 25th)
As Christianity is one of the major religions in Korea, Christmas is recognized as a public holiday. People celebrate by attending church services, exchanging gifts, and spending time with family or loved ones.
3. What Are Temporary Holidays?
Temporary holidays (imsi gonghyuil) are designated by the government for special reasons, such as national events or economic stimulation. These holidays are not fixed and are announced when deemed necessary to provide citizens with additional rest.
4. What Are Substitute Holidays?
Substitute holidays (daech’e gonghyuil) are implemented when a public holiday falls on a weekend. In such cases, the following weekday is designated as a holiday. This system applies to major holidays like Children’s Day, Seollal, and Chuseok. In recent years, it has also been extended to Independence Movement Day, National Liberation Day, National Foundation Day, and Hangeul Day.
5. How to Make the Most of Korean Holidays
• Plan vacations around extended holidays. Korea has many national and festive holidays that create opportunities for long breaks.
• Utilize substitute and temporary holidays wisely. Understanding these holidays can help in planning efficient time off.
• Prepare for heavy travel during Seollal and Chuseok. These holidays involve mass travel, so booking transportation in advance is essential.
Conclusion
Korea’s holidays and festive days offer valuable opportunities to spend time with family and relax. Since many of these holidays follow the lunar calendar, their dates change every year, making it essential to check the calendar when planning trips or events. By understanding substitute and temporary holidays, you can maximize your holiday time and make the most of Korea’s unique holiday system.