In this article, you’ll know the favorite holidays and celebrations in Korea. Korea follows the Gregorian calendar. However, the country’s traditional holidays are still based on the Lunar calendar. If you are visiting Korea, know that offices and banks are closed during the official holidays (related: what time is it?). The good news is department stores, museums, and palaces are open. Meaning, you can still enjoy shopping and tour the country during the Korean holidays.
Official Korean Holidays 2021
Are you visiting Korea soon? No one can question you since it is a beautiful country where you can meet many friendly locals. Not only that, but this country is packed with entertainment and breathtaking scenery. You can enjoy your vacation in Korea if you have prepared well. So to help you create better plans, we’ve listed the popular Korean holidays:
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Date
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Holiday
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Details
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January 1
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New Year’s Day
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New Year is celebrated around the world, and Korea is no exception. New Year's Day is one of the most significant Korean holidays since many Koreans visit the coast or the mountains to watch the first sunrise of the year.
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February 11-13
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Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day)
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Lunar New Year's Day (Seollal) is one of the most significant traditional holidays in Korea. Many Koreans consider it as more important than the Gregorian New Year. On this day, many businesses are closed since most people take several days off from work to visit their hometown. During Seollal, feasts are held where delicious food is served, including rice cake soup and dumpling soup. Seollal is when Korean families enjoy spending time together. It is a perfect time for them to enjoy playing traditional games and Korean board games.
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March 1
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Independence Movement Day
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During this day, Koreans commemorate the Declaration of Independence proclaimed on March 1, 1919, when the country was under Japanese colonization.
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May 5
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Children’s Day
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This day is dedicated to celebrating children and hoping that they will be nurtured with love and care. Children's Day is when special events for family and children take place. The celebration is done in amusement parks, city parks, movie theaters, and zoos.
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May 19
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Buddha’s Birthday
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Koreans celebrate the birth of Buddha. During this Korean holiday, they conduct solemn rituals, which are usually held at Buddhist temples across the country. Visiting the country on Buddha's Birthday allows you to see many lanterns hung along the streets leading to the temples.
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June 6
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Memorial Day
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Memorial Day is when Korean honor the soldiers and civilians who have given their lives for the country. Memorial services are held nationwide, making this commemoration one of the most important Korean holidays.
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August 15
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Liberation Day
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Liberation Day commemorates Japan's acceptance of the Allies' terms of surrender in 1945, giving the country its liberation.
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September 20-22
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Chuseok
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Chuseok is one of Korea's most important traditional holidays. Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, Chuseok is when Koreas celebrate a bountiful harvest.
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October 3
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National Foundation Day
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On this day, Koreans celebrate the founding of the Korean nation by the legendary god-king Dangun. They hold a simple ceremony in several regions throughout Korea.
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October 9
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Hangeul Day
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Hangeul Day is a commemoration held to remember the creation of Hangul. It refers to the country's native alphabet as proclaimed by the publication of Hunminjeongeum ("The Proper Sounds for the Instruction of the People").
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December 25
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Christmas
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Christmas is celebrated in many countries across the globe. To celebrate this festive season, Christmas trees and lights can be seen all over Korea.
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There are 11 official Korean holidays, and some are very important to the country’s citizens. If you are traveling to Korea, it would be easy to be aware of the celebrations so that you’ll know when is the best time to go. Be sure to also check what time zones they are in and if they observe daylight saving time. You can also plan the perfect itineraries in case you are visiting the country during the Korean holidays.