List of Public Holidays in South Korea – 2025
Date | Day | Holiday Name | Type |
---|---|---|---|
January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | National |
January 28–30 | Tuesday–Thursday | Seollal (Lunar New Year) | Cultural |
March 1 | Saturday | Independence Movement Day | National |
May 5 | Monday | Children’s Day | National |
May 6 | Tuesday | Buddha’s Birthday | Religious |
June 6 | Friday | Memorial Day | National |
August 15 | Friday | Liberation Day | National |
September 6–8 | Saturday–Monday | Chuseok (Harvest Festival) | Cultural |
October 3 | Friday | National Foundation Day | National |
October 9 | Thursday | Hangeul Day | National |
December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Religious |
Major Holidays in South Korea and Their Significance
Seollal (Lunar New Year): One of Korea’s most important holidays, Seollal marks the beginning of the lunar calendar. Families gather for ancestral rites (charye), share traditional meals like tteokguk (rice cake soup), and wear hanbok. It's a time of cultural heritage and family unity.
Chuseok (Korean Harvest Festival): Known as Korean Thanksgiving, Chuseok is a celebration of the harvest and honoring ancestors. Families visit hometowns, perform rituals, and enjoy songpyeon (rice cakes). It’s a prime time for tourists to experience Korean culture and traditions.
Children’s Day: This joyful national holiday celebrates the happiness and rights of children. Parks, zoos, and museums offer free or discounted entry, and families spend the day in celebration with their kids through outings and special events.
Hangeul Day: Commemorating the creation of the Korean alphabet by King Sejong, Hangeul Day honors linguistic heritage and national pride. Cultural events, exhibitions, and educational programs highlight the significance of Korea’s unique script.
Plan Ahead with the South Korea Holiday Calendar 2025
With the bank holidays in South Korea 2025 mapped out, you can optimize your schedule for business planning or personal travel. From serene temple visits during Buddha’s Birthday to vibrant traditions on Seollal and Chuseok, plan your trip around South Korea holidays to experience the country at its cultural best. Use this South Korea holiday calendar 2025 to stay prepared and enjoy all that the year has to offer.