Public Holidays in South Korea in 2025 offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s rich cultural tapestry and historical significance. These special days provide Koreans with opportunities to honor traditions, celebrate important events, and enjoy time with family and friends. From the Lunar New Year festivities of Seollal to the harvest celebrations of Chuseok, each holiday carries its unique customs and meanings. Throughout the year, these observances showcase Korea’s blend of ancient traditions and modern practices, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted values and evolving identity. Whether commemorating historical milestones, cultural achievements, or religious observances, South Korea’s public holidays in 2025 promise to be filled with meaningful celebrations and cherished moments.
Public Holidays in South Korea in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in South Korea in 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Seollal Holiday | Jan 28, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Seollal | Jan 29, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Seollal Holiday | Jan 30, 2025 | Thursday |
| Independence Movement Day | Mar 01, 2025 | Saturday |
| Children’s Day | May 05, 2025 | Monday |
| Buddha’s Birthday | May 05, 2025 | Monday |
| Memorial Day | Jun 06, 2025 | Friday |
| Liberation Day | Aug 15, 2025 | Friday |
| National Foundation Day | Oct 03, 2025 | Friday |
| Chuseok | Oct 05, 2025 | Sunday |
| Chuseok Holiday | Oct 06, 2025 | Monday |
| Chuseok Holiday | Oct 07, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Hangul Day | Oct 09, 2025 | Thursday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
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New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, or “Sinjeong,” marks the start of the Gregorian calendar year on January 1st. While Koreans traditionally celebrate the Lunar New Year (Seollal) more extensively, the Solar New Year is still observed as a public holiday. Many Koreans use this day for rest, reflection, and setting goals for the coming year. Some people visit temples or churches for prayers, while others enjoy time with family and friends. Traditional customs include eating tteokguk (rice cake soup) for good luck and health. In recent years, watching the first sunrise of the year has become popular, with many people gathering at beaches or mountains to witness this symbolic new beginning.
Seollal Holiday
The Seollal Holiday is an extension of the Lunar New Year celebration, typically lasting three days. This extended period allows Koreans to fully immerse themselves in traditional customs and spend ample time with family. Many businesses close, and people return to their ancestral hometowns. The holiday is marked by various activities, including preparing and sharing elaborate meals, performing ancestral rites, and exchanging well-wishes for the new year. It’s also a time for relaxation and bonding, with families often watching special holiday TV programs together. The Seollal Holiday serves as a bridge between the Old and New Year, emphasizing the importance of family, tradition, and cultural heritage.
Independence Movement Day
Independence Movement Day, or “Samiljeol,” is observed on March 1st to commemorate the Korean independence movement against Japanese colonial rule in 1919. This peaceful demonstration, known as the March 1st Movement, involved millions of Koreans protesting for independence and sovereignty. The day honors the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and national identity. Ceremonies are held nationwide, with the main event at Pagoda Park in Seoul, where the Korean Declaration of Independence was first read. Many Koreans visit museums and historical sites related to the independence movement, reflecting on their nation’s struggle for freedom and the importance of protecting their hard-won liberty.
Children’s Day
Children’s Day, celebrated on May 5th, is a joyful holiday dedicated to the happiness and rights of children. Established in 1923 by children’s rights activist Bang Jeong-hwan, it became a national holiday in 1975. On this day, parents often take time off work to spend with their children, visiting amusement parks, zoos, or children’s museums. Admission for youngsters is either free or significantly reduced at several sites. Families may have picnics or special meals, and parents typically give their children gifts. The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of children’s welfare and education in society, promoting a culture that values and nurtures its youngest members.
Buddha’s Birthday
It is “Bucheonim Osin Nal,” or Buddha’s Birthday, on the 8th day of the fourth month on the lunar calendar. This important Buddhist holiday commemorates the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. Temples across Korea are adorned with colorful lanterns, and many people participate in lantern-lighting ceremonies, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. The Lotus Lantern Festival, featuring a grand parade in Seoul, is a highlight of the celebration. Buddhist followers often visit temples to offer prayers, pour fragrant water over statues of Buddha, and participate in various cultural events. Even non-Buddhists enjoy the festive atmosphere and beautiful lantern displays, making it a widely appreciated cultural event.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day, or “Hyeonchung-il,” observed on June 6th, is a solemn day to honor those who sacrificed their lives for South Korea. It primarily commemorates soldiers and civilians who died during the Korean War and other conflicts. The main ceremony is held at the Seoul National Cemetery, where the nation’s leaders pay respects. A siren sounds at 10 AM, prompting a minute of silence nationwide. Many Koreans visit national cemeteries to lay flowers and pay tribute to the fallen. Special events are often held in schools and other public places to teach younger people about the people who gave their lives for their country’s freedom and to encourage pride.
Liberation Day
Liberation Day, or “Gwangbokjeol,” celebrated on August 15th, marks the end of Japanese colonial rule in Korea in 1945. This day represents Korea’s independence and the birth of the modern Korean nation. It’s a time for reflecting on the country’s struggle for freedom and celebrating national identity. Official ceremonies are held, including the presidential address and the singing of the national anthem. Many buildings display the Korean flag, and there are various cultural events and performances. Some Koreans visit historical sites related to the independence movement. The day also serves as a reminder of the ongoing hope for reunification with North Korea.
National Foundation Day
National Foundation Day, or “Gaecheonjeol,” observed on October 3rd, celebrates the mythical founding of Korea by Dangun in 2333 BCE. According to legend, Dangun established the first Korean kingdom, Gojoseon. This day emphasizes Korea’s long history and unique cultural identity. Official ceremonies are held at Chamseongdan Altar on Manisan Mountain, where Dangun is said to have performed rituals. Many Koreans visit historical sites or participate in cultural events that showcase traditional arts and customs. While not based on historical fact, this holiday serves to foster national pride and unity, reminding Koreans of their shared heritage and the enduring spirit of their nation.
Chuseok
Chuseok, often called “Korean Thanksgiving,” is a major harvest festival celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. It’s a time for family reunions, ancestral rituals, and expressing gratitude for the year’s harvest. Families gather in their hometowns to share traditional foods, especially songpyeon (half-moon-shaped rice cakes). Ancestral rites called charye are performed to honor deceased family members. People visit ancestral graves for beolcho (grave cleaning) and offer food to their ancestors. Traditional activities include folk games, dancing, and sharing stories. In modern times, Chuseok also involves gift-giving among families and colleagues. It’s a cherished holiday blending cultural traditions with contemporary practices.
Chuseok Holiday
The Chuseok Holiday extends the Chuseok celebration, typically lasting three days. This extended period allows Koreans to fully engage in traditional customs and spend quality time with family. Many people travel to their ancestral hometowns, leading to nationwide traffic congestion. The holiday is filled with various activities, including preparing and sharing special meals, performing ancestral rites, and exchanging gifts. Families often spend time together watching special Chuseok TV programs or playing traditional games. Some people use this time to visit cultural sites or enjoy nature. The Chuseok Holiday serves as an important break in the busy Korean lifestyle, emphasizing family bonds and cultural heritage.
Chuseok Holiday
The second day of the Chuseok Holiday continues the festive atmosphere and family-centered activities. Many families maintain traditions such as visiting ancestral graves or continuing ancestral rites. Others may choose to explore their hometown, visit local attractions or enjoy regional specialties. In urban areas, some people use this day for relaxation or catching up with friends. Traditional markets are often bustling with people buying ingredients for Chuseok meals or last-minute gifts. As the holiday progresses, there’s usually a sense of both celebration and reflection, with many Koreans appreciating the opportunity to reconnect with their roots and family members they may not usually see.
Hangul Day
Hangul Day celebrated on October 9th, commemorates the creation and proclamation of the Korean alphabet (Hangul) by King Sejong the Great in 1446. This holiday highlights the importance of Korea’s unique writing system, which is renowned for its scientific design and ease of learning. Many Koreans participate in Hangul-related events, such as calligraphy contests or exhibitions about the alphabet’s history. Schools often hold special activities to deepen students’ appreciation for their native script. The day serves as a source of cultural pride, emphasizing the democratization of knowledge that Hangul brought about by making literacy accessible to all social classes.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, observed on December 25th, is both a religious holiday for Christians and a popular cultural celebration in South Korea. While not traditionally Korean, Christmas has been widely embraced, blending Western traditions with local customs. Many churches hold services, and non-religious Koreans often enjoy the festive atmosphere. Cities are decked out with Christmas trees and lights, and shopping areas are packed with people looking for gifts. Young couples usually treat Christmas as a romantic holiday, going on special dates. Families and friends may exchange gifts and enjoy festive meals together. Some uniquely Korean Christmas traditions include eating Christmas cake and visiting themed cafes or attractions.