Are you planning a trip to Korea? Make the most of your travels by strategically avoiding the hustle and bustle of public holidays. In South Korea, all public holidays are also bank holidays, which means most offices, schools, and banks close to observe these special days. If you want to know about current and upcoming festivals in Korea, click here.
Here’s the list of public holidays in Korea for 2025.
January
1st: New Year's Day
27th - 30th: Seollal
Seollal, or Lunar New Year’s Day, is a significant traditional holiday where families gather to spend time together and enjoy special meals. This year, February 12th is designated as a substitute holiday, providing an extended break for everyone to enjoy.
Febuary
No holidays available
March
1st: Samiljeol
3rd: Substitute holiday
Samiljeol, or Independence Movement Day, is a day commemorating Korea’s independence movement. It marks the proclamation of the Korean Declaration of Independence on March 1, 1919. As Samiljeol falls on Saturday, March 3rd has been decided as substitute holiday.
April
No holidays available
May
5th: Children's Day & Buddah's Birthday
6th: Substitute Holiday
May 5th is Children’s Day in South Korea, a special occasion dedicated to celebrating children and their well-being. Families often spend quality time together, and various events and activities are organized across the country to entertain and educate children.
May 5th is also an important Korean Buddhist culture, commemorating the birth of Buddha. Known as “Buddha’s Birthday” in English, this day is regarded as a time to respect Buddhist teachings and to wish for peace and goodness.
This year Buddha’s Birthday and Children’s Day both fall on the same day. This is a rare overlap due to how Buddha’s Birthday is set based on the lunar calendar (8th day of the 4th lunar month), while Children’s Day is a fixed date on May 5 every year.
June
3rd: Presidential Election Day
6th: Hyunchoongil
Hyunchoongil, or Memorial Day, is a solemn occasion observed in South Korea to honor the soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives for their country. It is a day of remembrance and gratitude, marked by memorial services held nationwide. The largest ceremony takes place at the National Cemetery in Seoul, where dignitaries and citizens pay their respects to the fallen heroes.
August
15th: Gwangbokjeol
Gwangbokjeol, or Liberation Day, is one of South Korea’s historic national holidays. It commemorates the day when Korea was liberated from Japanese colonial rule in 1945 following Japan’s surrender. Liberation Day celebrates Korea’s independence and freedom, with citizens marking the occasion through commemorative events and ceremonies. Join Seodaemun Independence Festival 2025 from August 14 – 16 at the historic Seodaemun Prison and Independence Park.
September
No holidays available
October
3rd: Gaecheonjeol
Gaecheonjeol, known as National Foundation Day, is a significant national holiday in South Korea, commemorating the legendary founding of the nation. It celebrates the origins of Korea as depicted in mythological narratives. National Foundation Day holds cultural and historical importance in South Korea and is typically marked with commemorative ceremonies and events.
5th - 7th: Chuseok
Chuseok is one of Korea’s traditional holidays, often referred to as “Korean Thanksgiving” or “Harvest Festival.” It’s a time for families to come together to honor ancestors and express gratitude. Families gather for feasts featuring special dishes and participate in traditional games. Chuseok is considered one of Korea’s most important holidays, emphasizing family bonding and joyful celebrations. Learn More >>
9th: Hangeul Day
Hangeul Day celebrates the creation and proclamation of the Korean alphabet, Hangeul, by King Sejong the Great in 1446. This day commemorates the cultural heritage and linguistic identity of Korea, highlighting the importance of Hangeul in promoting literacy and communication. Learn More >>
November
No holidays available
December
25th: Christmas
* Substitute holidays apply if major holidays (Seollal, Chuseok, Independence Day, Children’s Day, Buddha’s Birthday, Liberation Day, Foundation Day, Hangeul Day, Christmas) fall on the weekend.