| January 1
New Year's Day |
The first two days of the year are officially designated as
holidays. Most Koreans take this time to visit their elders and other relatives.
|
Lunar New Year's Day |
Before Korea adopted the Julian Calender from dbo168847587.the West, Koreans considered
Lunar New Year's the start of the new year. In fact, most Koreans have returned
to traditional ways and observe this day as the true New Year's day, observing
the traditional "harae" (giving thanks to deceased ancestors)
the first thing in the morning. |
March 1
Independence Movement Day |
In 1919, 33 Korean patriots signed and circulated the Declaration of Independence
that sparked a nationwide, peaceful protest against Japanese colonial rule.
Memorial services are held for the lost patriots at Seoul's Tapgol (Pagoda)
Park where the Declaration was first proclaimed. |
April 5
Arbor Day |
Government offices are closed this day to encourage people to plant saplings
throughout the country, as the peninsula suffered massive de-forestation
during the close of World War II and the Korean War. |
May 5
Children's Day |
On January 15, 1975, the government designated May 5 Children's Day, which
is observed as a national holiday so parents can enjoy a spring day with
their children. |
April 8 (Lunar)
Birth of Buddha |
Solemn rituals are held at temples with throngs of devout Buddhists attending.
At night, tens of thousands of amber lanterns light up temple grounds. Cities
string electric lanterns along downtown streets, and there is a large parade
in downtown Seoul which ends at Chogye-sa (Temple). |
June 6
Memorial Day |
Most activities come to a full stop at 10:00 a.m. for a moment of silence
to remember those who died for the nation. Ranking government officials,
civic leaders and foreign dignitaries join white-clad bereaved relatives
of fallen soldiers to lay wreaths and burn incense at the National Cemetery. |
July 17
Constitution Day |
Ceremonies are held to commemorate the founding of the Republic of Korea
and the promulgation of the constitution in 1948. |
August 15
Liberation Day |
On this day in 1948, the Republic of Korea was established, reclaiming
national sovereignty after 36 years of Japanese colonial rule and three-years
of the United States Army Military Government in South Korea. |
August 15 (Lunar)
Chuseok |
Chuseok literally means "Fall's Eve" and is a time reserved
to give thanks to the ancestors for the year's harvest. Normally a grand
feast and celebration follow the formal expression of thanks. |
October 3
National Foundation Day |
The literal translation for the holiday is "The Day the Heavens Opened."
Tthis is the day that the nation's legendary founder Tangun is said to have
descended to earth 5,000 years ago. Mortal leaders decreed the date would
be observed according to the solar calendar in 1949. |
December 25
Christmas Day |
Korea has the second-largest Christian following in Asia, a quarter of
the population according to the 1995 national census. For them the holiday
is a spiritual event celebrated within their religious communities. |
