North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), has a unique set of public holidays that reflect its history, culture, and political ideology. These holidays are deeply rooted in the nation’s traditions and honor significant events and figures, particularly the leaders of the country. From national celebrations like the Day of the Sun to traditional festivals like Chuseok, each holiday offers a glimpse into the values and customs of North Korean society.
This blog explores the significance of these public holidays in 2025, providing insight into their importance and the ways they are celebrated.
Public Holidays in North Korea In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in north korea in 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Seollal Holiday | Jan 29, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Daeboreum | Feb 12, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Day of the Shining Star | Feb 16, 2025 | Sunday |
| International Women’s Day | Mar 08, 2025 | Saturday |
| Chungmyung Day | Apr 04, 2025 | Friday |
| Day of the Sun | Apr 15, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Military Foundation Day | Apr 25, 2025 | Friday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Korean Children’s UnionFoundation Day | Jun 06, 2025 | Friday |
| Victory Day | Jul 27, 2025 | Sunday |
| Liberation Day | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| Day of Songun | Aug 25, 2025 | Monday |
| National Day | Sep 09, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Chuseok | Oct 06, 2025 | Monday |
| Party Foundation Day | Oct 10, 2025 | Friday |
| Mothers’ Day | Nov 16, 2025 | Sunday |
| Constitution Day | Dec 27, 2025 | Saturday |
| Know more: Public Holidays in Niue In 2025 |
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2025
New Year’s Day in North Korea is a time for celebration and renewal. Families gather to enjoy special meals, exchange gifts, and express hopes for the coming year. It’s a public holiday that allows people to rest and spend time with loved ones. Many also take part in cultural and patriotic activities, reflecting on the achievements of the past year and looking forward to future successes. The day often includes performances, fireworks, and other festive events.
Seollal Holiday – January 29, 2025
Seollal, or Lunar New Year, is one of the most important traditional holidays in North Korea. Families come together to honor their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies. They prepare and enjoy traditional foods like tteokguk (rice cake soup) and perform ancestral rites called charye. Seollal is a time for family reunions, games, and storytelling, fostering a sense of unity and cultural heritage. It’s a period of rest and celebration, marking the beginning of the lunar calendar.
Daeboreum – February 12, 2025
Daeboreum, or the Great Full Moon Festival, is celebrated on the first full moon of the lunar year. North Koreans partake in traditional customs like eating special foods such as ogokbap (five-grain rice) and nuts to ensure good health and fortune. Activities like burning daljip (small bonfires) and walking barefoot on the ground are believed to ward off bad luck. The festival highlights the importance of health, prosperity, and community bonding in the new year.
Day of the Shining Star – February 16, 2025
The Day of the Shining Star commemorates the birth of Kim Jong-il, the former leader of North Korea. It is a national holiday marked by various celebrations, including performances, exhibitions, and sporting events. People pay their respects at statues and monuments dedicated to Kim Jong-il, reflecting on his contributions to the country. The day is filled with patriotic activities and serves as a reminder of the leadership and legacy of Kim Jong-il.
International Women’s Day – March 8, 2025
International Women’s Day in North Korea is a day to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women. It is a public holiday where women are honored through various events and activities. There are cultural performances, gatherings, and ceremonies recognizing the role of women in society. The day emphasizes gender equality and the importance of women’s participation in all aspects of life. It is a time for appreciation and reflection on women’s rights and empowerment.
Chungmyung Day – April 4, 2025
Chungmyung Day, also known as Clear and Bright Day, is a traditional holiday for paying respects to ancestors and cleaning their gravesites. Families visit cemeteries to tidy up the graves, offer food, and perform rituals to honor their deceased loved ones. The holiday emphasizes filial piety, remembrance, and respect for the deceased. It is a time for families to come together, reflect on their heritage, and maintain the gravesites of their ancestors.
Day of the Sun – April 15, 2025
The Day of the Sun is the most important national holiday in North Korea, celebrating the birth of Kim Il-sung, the founding leader of the country. The day is marked by grand parades, performances, and various cultural and patriotic events. People visit statues and monuments of Kim Il-sung to pay their respects. The holiday reflects the deep reverence for Kim Il-sung’s legacy and his role in shaping the nation’s history and ideology.
Military Foundation Day – April 25, 2025
Military Foundation Day commemorates the establishment of the Korean People’s Army in 1932. It is a day to honor the military’s contributions to the nation’s security and sovereignty. The holiday includes military parades, exhibitions, and ceremonies recognizing the bravery and dedication of soldiers. It serves as a reminder of the importance of a strong military in protecting the country and its people. The day fosters patriotism and national pride.
Labour Day – May 1, 2025
Labour Day in North Korea is a celebration of workers and their contributions to the country’s development. It is marked by rallies, parades, and cultural events showcasing the achievements of the working class. The day emphasizes the importance of labor in building a prosperous nation and recognizes the efforts of workers across various sectors. It is a public holiday that promotes solidarity, pride, and appreciation for the workforce.
Korean Children’s Union Foundation Day – June 6, 2025
Korean Children’s Union Foundation Day celebrates the founding of the Korean Children’s Union, an organization for young students. The day is marked by ceremonies, performances, and activities highlighting the role of children in the future of the nation. It emphasizes the values of loyalty, patriotism, and discipline instilled in young members. The holiday is a time for children to showcase their talents and dedication to their country, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility.
Victory Day – July 27, 2025
Victory Day commemorates the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953, marking the end of active hostilities in the Korean War. It is celebrated with military parades, ceremonies, and patriotic events honoring the sacrifices of soldiers and the resilience of the nation. The day is a reminder of the struggle for sovereignty and the importance of peace. It highlights the strength and unity of the Korean people in overcoming challenges and achieving victory.
Liberation Day – August 15, 2025
Liberation Day marks the end of Japanese colonial rule in 1945 and the liberation of Korea. It is a national holiday celebrated with various events, including ceremonies, performances, and public gatherings. The day reflects on the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence and the joy of freedom. It emphasizes national pride, unity, and the importance of sovereignty. Liberation Day is a time for reflection on the nation’s history and achievements.
Day of Songun – August 25, 2025
The Day of Songun celebrates the “military-first” policy, emphasizing the importance of the armed forces in North Korean society. It is a day to honor the military’s role in safeguarding the nation and contributing to its development. The holiday includes military parades, exhibitions, and cultural events highlighting the achievements of the armed forces. It underscores the significance of a strong military in maintaining national security and promoting prosperity.
National Day – September 9, 2025
National Day commemorates the founding of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in 1948. It is a major national holiday celebrated with grand parades, cultural performances, and various patriotic events. The day emphasizes national pride, unity, and the achievements of the country. People participate in activities showcasing the nation’s history, culture, and accomplishments. National Day reflects the importance of independence and the ongoing development of North Korea.
Chuseok – October 6, 2025
Chuseok, also known as the Harvest Moon Festival, is a traditional holiday celebrating the autumn harvest. Families come together to share meals, perform ancestral rites, and enjoy traditional games and activities. The holiday emphasizes gratitude for the harvest, family unity, and respect for ancestors. It is a time for relaxation, feasting, and celebrating the bounties of nature. Chuseok highlights the importance of family and cultural traditions.
Party Foundation Day – October 10, 2025
Party Foundation Day commemorates the establishment of the Workers’ Party of Korea in 1945. It is a significant political holiday marked by various events, including parades, performances, and gatherings. The day emphasizes the role of the Workers’ Party in leading the country and shaping its policies. It reflects on the party’s achievements and the importance of loyalty to its principles. The holiday fosters a sense of unity and commitment to the nation’s goals.
Mothers’ Day – November 16, 2025
Mothers’ Day in North Korea is a time to honor and appreciate mothers for their contributions to families and society. The day includes various activities and events celebrating the role of mothers. Families express their gratitude through gifts, special meals, and gatherings. The holiday emphasizes the importance of maternal care, love, and support in building strong families and communities. It is a day for showing appreciation and respect for mothers.
Constitution Day – December 27, 2025
Constitution Day commemorates the adoption of North Korea’s constitution in 1972. It is a public holiday marked by ceremonies, discussions, and educational events highlighting the significance of the constitution in the country’s governance. The day emphasizes the principles and values enshrined in the constitution, such as sovereignty, independence, and socialism. It is a time for reflection on the legal framework that guides the nation’s political and social life.