Korean Holidays &Festivals You Should Know

Table of Contents

• Unveiling the Heart of Korea: A Look at Its Vibrant Holidays
• The Pillars of Celebration: Seollal and Chuseok
• Beyond the Big Two: Exploring Other National Holidays
• Festivals: Where Tradition Meets Modern Excitement
• The Evolving Landscape of Korean Celebrations
• Planning Your Visit: Festivals Through the Year
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

South Korea is a land where ancient traditions dance harmoniously with modern innovation, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant array of holidays and festivals. These aren't just days off; they are deeply woven threads in the fabric of Korean identity, offering a spectacular glimpse into the nation's soul. From solemn ancestral rites to riotous celebrations of nature and culture, understanding these occasions provides a unique portal into the Korean way of life, past and present. Prepare to be enchanted by the rhythm of Korean festivities, a journey that promises both discovery and delight.

Korean Holidays &Festivals You Should Know

 

Unveiling the Heart of Korea: A Look at Its Vibrant Holidays

South Korea officially observes 11 national holidays each year, a framework that sets the rhythm for the country's public calendar. However, the true essence of Korean celebration often extends beyond this fixed list, embracing traditions tied to the lunar calendar and other significant observances. These days are far more than mere breaks from work or school; they are deeply embedded cultural touchstones that foster community, honor heritage, and acknowledge significant historical moments. The blend of solar and lunar calendars in determining holiday dates means that while some celebrations remain consistent, others shift annually, adding a dynamic element to the year's festive cycle. This dual calendar system is a direct reflection of Korea's rich history, where astronomical observation and agricultural cycles played a crucial role in daily life and cultural practices.

These holidays serve as vital points of connection, bringing families together across distances and reinforcing shared cultural values. For many Koreans, these periods are opportunities to return to their hometowns, participate in ancestral ceremonies, and reconnect with their roots. The importance of these gatherings cannot be overstated; they are moments where traditions are passed down, stories are shared, and the bonds of kinship are strengthened. Beyond the personal, national holidays also play a role in national identity, commemorating events that have shaped the country and its people. Understanding these public holidays provides a foundational understanding of the Korean social structure and its emphasis on family and collective memory.

The cultural significance of these days is immense, often dictating social customs and family obligations. For instance, the act of visiting ancestral graves (seongmyo) during certain holidays is a profound expression of respect for one's lineage. Similarly, the preparation and sharing of specific foods are not just culinary activities but rituals that carry symbolic meaning and reinforce cultural identity. These practices, passed down through generations, ensure that the cultural heritage of Korea remains vibrant and relevant. The collective observance of these holidays fosters a sense of unity and shared identity among the populace, reinforcing the unique character of Korean culture.

The modern impact of these holidays is also considerable, influencing everything from travel patterns to consumer behavior. The periods around Seollal and Chuseok, in particular, see massive movements of people, often described as the largest domestic travel events of the year. This phenomenon highlights the deep-seated value placed on family reunions and traditional customs, even in a rapidly modernizing society. The economic implications are also significant, with businesses often adapting their operations to accommodate these periods of widespread closure and travel.

While the official list comprises 11 national holidays, the actual number of public holidays can fluctuate due to substitute holiday arrangements and the lunar calendar's variable dates. This flexibility ensures that important traditional celebrations are observed with due recognition. The nation’s embrace of both the Gregorian and lunar calendars for its holidays demonstrates a unique cultural adaptation, respecting both global standards and enduring ancestral practices. This adaptability is a key characteristic of Korean culture, allowing it to absorb external influences while maintaining its distinct identity.

National Holiday Overview

Holiday	Date	Significance
New Year's Day	January 1	Start of the Gregorian calendar year.
Independence Movement Day	March 1	Commemorates the 1919 March 1st Movement for independence.
Children's Day	May 5	Celebrates children and their welfare.

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The Pillars of Celebration: Seollal and Chuseok

When discussing Korean holidays, two stand head and shoulders above the rest: Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Mid-Autumn Festival). These are not merely important; they are the cornerstones of the Korean festive calendar, drawing millions of people to their ancestral homes. Seollal, celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar, marks the beginning of a new year according to traditional reckoning. It is a time steeped in reverence for ancestors and family unity. The day often begins with charye, a solemn ancestral memorial rite where food offerings are meticulously prepared and presented. Following this, younger generations perform sebae, a deep ceremonial bow to their elders, receiving blessings and, typically, money in colorful envelopes.

The festive table during Seollal is laden with symbolic foods, chief among them tteokguk, a hearty rice cake soup. Eating tteokguk is believed to add a year to one's age, signifying renewal and the passage of time. Other delicacies like jeon (savory pancakes) and various namul (seasoned vegetables) are also customary. Many families don traditional attire, the elegant hanbok, adding a splash of color and cultural pride to the celebrations. The atmosphere is one of joyous reunion, often filled with traditional games like yutnori and the retelling of family histories, reinforcing intergenerational bonds and cultural continuity. The sheer scale of travel during Seollal is staggering, often leading to nationwide traffic jams as people prioritize returning home.

Chuseok, falling on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, is Korea's equivalent of Thanksgiving, a harvest festival that celebrates abundance and gratitude. Similar to Seollal, it is a crucial time for family gatherings and honoring ancestors. A key tradition during Chuseok is visiting and tending to ancestral graves, a practice known as seongmyo, often accompanied by a ritual called gijeosa. This act of remembrance underscores the deep respect for lineage and the cyclical nature of life and death ingrained in Korean culture.

The culinary centerpiece of Chuseok is songpyeon, delicate half-moon shaped rice cakes filled with ingredients like sesame seeds, honey, or red beans, steamed over pine needles for a distinct aroma. The preparation of songpyeon is often a communal activity, bringing family members together in the kitchen. The abundance of the harvest is celebrated through a wide array of dishes, reflecting the bounty of the season. Like Seollal, Chuseok sees a significant exodus from major cities as people journey to their hometowns, making it another period of intense domestic travel and, consequently, busy roads and transportation networks. Both holidays represent the pinnacle of family-centric celebrations in Korea, emphasizing shared meals, ancestral respect, and the continuation of cherished traditions.

The cultural resonance of these two holidays is immense, shaping social norms and expectations around family obligations and participation in ancestral rites. They are not just days of rest but active periods of cultural practice and familial connection. The continuity of these traditions, despite societal changes, speaks to their profound importance in maintaining Korean identity and values. The shared experience of celebrating Seollal and Chuseok creates a powerful sense of collective belonging and cultural heritage that resonates throughout the nation and its diaspora.

Seollal vs. Chuseok: Key Distinctions

Feature	Seollal (Lunar New Year)	Chuseok (Mid-Autumn Festival)
Timing	1st day of the 1st Lunar Month	15th day of the 8th Lunar Month
Primary Theme	New Beginnings, Ancestral Rites	Harvest Festival, Gratitude, Ancestral Veneration
Signature Food	Tteokguk (Rice Cake Soup)	Songpyeon (Half-moon Rice Cakes)
Key Ritual	Sebae (New Year's bow to elders)	Seongmyo & Gijeosa (Grave visits & rites)

Beyond the Big Two: Exploring Other National Holidays

While Seollal and Chuseok command immense attention, South Korea's national holidays offer a diverse spectrum of commemorations, each with its unique historical weight and cultural significance. New Year's Day on January 1st, following the Gregorian calendar, is a public holiday, though the larger celebrations are often reserved for Seollal. It serves as a general marker for the start of the year, with many reflecting on resolutions and future plans. March 1st is Independence Movement Day, a solemn occasion commemorating the 1919 declaration of independence from Japanese colonial rule. This day honors the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for Korea's sovereignty, often marked by public ceremonies and historical retrospectives.

May 5th is Children's Day, a vibrant celebration dedicated to the nation's youth. It's a time for families to spend quality time with their children, engaging in activities, visiting parks, and giving gifts. The holiday underscores the importance of children and their well-being in Korean society, reflecting a forward-looking perspective on national development. The celebration of Buddha's Birthday, which falls on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, is a visually spectacular holiday. Temples across the country are adorned with colorful lanterns, and grand parades, such as the Lotus Lantern Festival, illuminate the cities, showcasing the enduring influence of Buddhism on Korean culture and aesthetics.

June 6th marks Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for the soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives for the country, particularly during the Korean War and other conflicts. A national ceremony is held to honor their memory and to reaffirm the nation's commitment to peace and security. August 15th is Liberation Day, a joyous national holiday celebrating Korea's liberation from Japanese rule in 1945. It is a day of national pride and reflection on the hard-won independence, often featuring cultural performances and historical reenactments.

October 3rd is National Foundation Day, commemorating the legendary founding of the Korean nation by Dangun Wanggeom. It is a day rooted in ancient history and mythology, celebrated with various cultural events that explore Korea's origins. Just a week later, on October 9th, Hangeul Day celebrates the invention of the Korean alphabet by King Sejong the Great in the 15th century. This holiday highlights the pride Koreans have in their unique and scientific writing system, recognizing its profound impact on literacy and national identity. Finally, Christmas Day on December 25th is observed as a public holiday, reflecting the significant Christian population in South Korea and its integration into the national holiday calendar.

Each of these national holidays, while perhaps not as universally celebrated with large family gatherings as Seollal or Chuseok, plays a crucial role in shaping the national narrative and fostering a sense of collective identity. They provide opportunities for education, remembrance, and celebration, ensuring that key aspects of Korean history, culture, and values are continually acknowledged and passed down through generations. The diversity of these observances offers a richer understanding of the multifaceted nature of Korean heritage.

Selected National Holidays: An Overview

Holiday	Date	Focus	Typical Observance
Buddha's Birthday	Lunar Calendar, 4th Month, 8th Day	Buddhism, Enlightenment	Lantern festivals, temple visits
Memorial Day	June 6	Remembrance of fallen soldiers/civilians	National ceremonies, visits to national cemeteries
Liberation Day	August 15	Commemoration of independence from Japan	Festive events, historical displays
Hangeul Day	October 9	Celebration of the Korean alphabet	Linguistic events, writing contests

Festivals: Where Tradition Meets Modern Excitement

Beyond the fixed calendar of national holidays, South Korea bursts to life with a myriad of festivals throughout the year, transforming its cities and countryside into vibrant hubs of activity. These events are not merely tourist attractions; they are dynamic expressions of Korean culture, often blending ancient traditions with contemporary flair and interactive experiences. Recent trends indicate a significant shift towards enhancing the immersive and experiential aspects of these festivals. There's a growing emphasis on nighttime programming and making festivals more than just a place to visit, but a destination to stay and engage with. This evolution is driven by a desire to offer visitors deeper connections to local culture and to leverage the global appeal of Korean arts and entertainment.

A striking trend is the surge in nighttime festivities, with approximately 83% of festivals now incorporating evening programs. This has led to a measurable increase in attendance during these hours, particularly on Saturdays, suggesting a public appetite for vibrant, after-dark cultural experiences. This nocturnal shift is transforming how people engage with festivals, moving beyond daylight sightseeing to evenings filled with light, music, and unique performances. This also creates new economic opportunities for local businesses, extending the peak hours of activity and visitor spending. The allure of illuminated landscapes and cultural performances under the stars adds a magical dimension to these celebrations.

The influence of K-content, encompassing K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cinema, is also profoundly impacting festival attendance. Cultural and artistic festivals have seen a notable rise in foreign visitor numbers, with a 13% increase between 2019 and 2024. This demonstrates the global fascination with Korean culture and its power to draw international enthusiasts eager to experience its manifestations firsthand. Festivals that tap into these cultural currents, whether through themed events or collaborations, are particularly successful in attracting a diverse audience. This global interest fuels a dynamic exchange, where Korean culture is shared and celebrated on an international stage.

Autumn has solidified its position as a prime festival season, attracting a larger percentage of visitors compared to winter months. This is largely due to the pleasant weather conducive to outdoor activities and a potential decrease in the sheer volume of winter-specific events. Regions like Seoul and Jeju, along with Chungnam province, are experiencing growth in festival-related tourism, often by highlighting unique regional characteristics and offering particularly engaging programs. This regional specialization helps to distribute tourism benefits and showcase the diverse appeal of different parts of South Korea.

Examples of this modern festival approach are abundant. The Boryeong Mud Festival, for instance, offers a hands-on, exhilarating experience that goes beyond passive observation. Similarly, the Jeju Fire Festival engages participants in traditional rituals, creating memorable and interactive encounters. These festivals are meticulously designed to offer tangible experiences, from culinary workshops to craft-making sessions, ensuring that visitors leave with a deeper understanding and a personal connection to Korean traditions. This move towards experiential tourism is a hallmark of modern festival development.

Festival Trends: Night vs. Day

Aspect	Nighttime Festivities	Daytime Festivities
Prevalence	Increasingly common (83% of festivals feature evening programs)	Traditional mainstay
Popularity Driver	Immersive experiences, K-content influence, unique atmosphere	Traditional activities, family-friendly daytime events
Attendance Trend	Growing, especially on Saturdays	Stable, with seasonal variations

The Evolving Landscape of Korean Celebrations

The way Koreans celebrate is not static; it's a dynamic reflection of societal shifts, technological advancements, and global cultural exchange. There's a palpable move towards making festivals more experiential, inviting active participation rather than passive observation. This is evident in the growing popularity of workshops, hands-on craft sessions, and immersive cultural reenactments. The aim is to create lasting memories and deeper connections, transforming a festival visit into a meaningful journey of discovery. This approach caters to a modern audience that seeks authenticity and personal engagement in their leisure activities.

The integration of technology into festivals is another significant development. While traditional elements remain central, many events are now incorporating elements like virtual reality (VR) experiences, augmented reality (AR) overlays, and drone light shows to enhance visual appeal and interactivity. These technological additions can offer novel perspectives on historical sites or traditional performances, making them more accessible and engaging for younger generations and international visitors alike. For instance, VR can transport visitors to historical periods, while AR can overlay digital information onto real-world views, enriching the learning experience.

Furthermore, the concept of "K-Traditional Culture" is gaining traction, showcasing how age-old customs are being reinterpreted for contemporary relevance. Festivals dedicated to traditional attire like hanbok, or those focusing on Korean cuisine, often feature modern designs, fusion culinary experiences, and interactive styling sessions. This effort to modernize tradition helps to ensure its survival and appeal, demonstrating that cultural heritage can be both preserved and dynamically evolved. Events that successfully blend the old with the new often attract the widest audiences, bridging generational and cultural divides.

The impact of K-culture extends beyond music and drama into festivals that celebrate specific aspects of Korean lifestyle, such as K-beauty. The Korea Beauty Festival, for example, draws global enthusiasts, showcasing the latest trends and products while connecting them to Korean skincare and makeup artistry. This exemplifies how specific cultural industries can be leveraged to create unique festival experiences that have broad international appeal. These focused festivals cater to niche interests and global trends, driving tourism and cultural exchange in specialized areas.

Regional festivals are also playing a more prominent role in promoting local identity and unique cultural assets. Events like the Andong Mask Dance Festival or the Yeongdeok Snow Crab Festival not only celebrate regional traditions and produce but also serve as vital economic engines for their communities. By highlighting distinctive local characteristics, these festivals contribute to a richer, more diverse tapestry of cultural experiences across the country, encouraging exploration beyond the major metropolitan areas and fostering appreciation for local heritage.

Festival Evolution: Key Changes

Evolutionary Aspect	Description	Impact
From Passive to Active	Shift from observation to hands-on participation	Increased visitor engagement and memorability
Technological Integration	Use of VR, AR, drone shows	Enhanced visual appeal and interactivity
Modernizing Tradition	Reinterpretation of traditional arts and practices	Ensures cultural relevance and broader appeal
Niche Culture Celebration	Festivals focused on specific cultural industries (e.g., K-beauty)	Attracts global enthusiasts and drives specialized tourism

Planning Your Visit: Festivals Through the Year

For travelers looking to experience the vibrant pulse of Korean culture firsthand, timing their visit to coincide with a festival can be incredibly rewarding. South Korea hosts events year-round, offering a diverse range of experiences depending on the season. Spring (March-May) often brings a gentle awakening with flower festivals, such as the famous cherry blossom festivals that blanket the country in pink and white. These are generally lively and picturesque, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The Changnyeong Daffodil Festival and the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival are prime examples of this season's floral splendor.

Summer (June-August) is a time for dynamic and often water-centric festivals, embracing the warmer weather. The Boryeong Mud Festival, a globally renowned event, takes place in July, offering playful and energetic mud-based activities. Other summer festivals might include vibrant music events and local food celebrations, taking advantage of the long days and festive atmosphere. The Boseong Green Tea Festival also typically occurs in this period, showcasing Korea's tea culture amidst lush landscapes.

As mentioned, Autumn (September-November) is a peak season for festivals. The pleasant weather makes it ideal for exploring. Events often focus on harvest themes, cultural performances, and historical commemorations. The Andong Mask Dance Festival in early October is a major cultural highlight, while the Jeju Fire Festival (often in early spring, but some similar fire-related events occur in autumn) symbolically burns fields to ensure a bountiful harvest and good fortune. Many regions host food festivals celebrating autumn produce during this time. October sees a notable increase in festival visitors, making it a prime month for cultural exploration.

Winter (December-February), though colder, is not devoid of festivities. While fewer large-scale outdoor events take place, there are still opportunities to experience unique celebrations. These might include ice and snow festivals, such as the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival, where participants fish for mountain trout through holes in the ice. Many indoor cultural events and year-end celebrations, including Christmas and New Year's, also occur. Temple stays and winter markets offer a more tranquil yet engaging cultural experience during this season. The transition from year-end holidays into the early lunar new year period also offers unique cultural insights.

For those planning a trip, checking the specific dates for major holidays like Seollal and Chuseok is crucial, as many smaller businesses may close. However, major tourist attractions and larger festivals often operate with special programs during these times. It’s also worth noting that while Seoul and Jeju are popular destinations, exploring regional festivals can offer a more authentic and diverse cultural immersion. Researching the specific dates and themes of festivals aligning with your travel dates will undoubtedly enhance your Korean experience, offering unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this captivating country.

Seasonal Festival Highlights

Season	Typical Months	Festival Examples	Atmosphere
Spring	March - May	Cherry Blossom Festivals, Daffodil Festivals	Refreshing, floral, vibrant
Summer	June - August	Boryeong Mud Festival, Music Festivals	Energetic, lively, hot
Autumn	September - November	Andong Mask Dance Festival, Harvest Festivals	Pleasant, cultural, abundant
Winter	December - February	Ice Fishing Festivals, Winter Markets	Crisp, festive, sometimes tranquil

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How many national holidays does South Korea have?

 

A1. South Korea officially celebrates 11 national holidays annually. However, the total number of public holidays can be higher due to lunar calendar-based celebrations and substitute holiday arrangements.

 

Q2. What are the most important traditional holidays in Korea?

 

A2. The two most significant traditional holidays are Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Mid-Autumn Festival). These are major family gatherings centered around ancestral rites and festive foods.

 

Q3. Do businesses close during major holidays like Seollal and Chuseok?

 

A3. Yes, many businesses, banks, and public offices close during Seollal and Chuseok. However, major tourist attractions like palaces, museums, and department stores often remain open and may host special events.

 

Q4. What is the significance of Seollal?

 

A4. Seollal marks the beginning of the lunar new year. It's a time for family reunions, performing ancestral rites (charye), wearing hanbok, and eating tteokguk (rice cake soup).

 

Q5. What is Chuseok, and what is eaten during this holiday?

 

A5. Chuseok is the Mid-Autumn Festival, often called Korean Thanksgiving. It's a harvest festival celebrated with family gatherings and honoring ancestors. Key foods include songpyeon (rice cakes).

 

Q6. Are there any holidays related to Buddhism in Korea?

 

A6. Yes, Buddha's Birthday is a national holiday, celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. It's marked by elaborate temple decorations and lantern festivals.

 

Q7. What does Independence Movement Day commemorate?

 

A7. Independence Movement Day on March 1st commemorates the 1919 movement for independence from Japanese colonial rule, honoring the nation's struggle for sovereignty.

 

Q8. What is Hangeul Day?

 

A8. Hangeul Day, celebrated on October 9th, honors the invention and proclamation of the Korean alphabet (Hangeul) by King Sejong the Great, celebrating Korean literacy and culture.

 

Q9. Is Christmas a public holiday in South Korea?

 

A9. Yes, Christmas Day on December 25th is a recognized public holiday in South Korea, reflecting the country's religious diversity.

 

Q10. What are current trends in Korean festivals?

 

A10. Current trends include a rise in nighttime festivities, increased foreign visitor engagement driven by K-content, a focus on experiential tourism, and regional specialization.

 

Q11. Why are nighttime festivals becoming more popular?

 

A11. Nighttime festivals offer unique atmospheres with lights, performances, and a different vibe, attracting more visitors and extending the festival experience beyond daylight hours.

 

Q12. How does K-content influence festivals?

Festivals: Where Tradition Meets Modern Excitement

 

A12. The global popularity of K-pop, K-dramas, and other Korean cultural exports drives interest in attending cultural and artistic festivals, increasing foreign visitor numbers.

 

Q13. Which season is most popular for festivals in Korea?

 

A13. Autumn is increasingly popular for festivals due to favorable weather for outdoor activities, attracting a larger percentage of visitors compared to winter.

 

Q14. What kind of experiences do modern festivals offer?

 

A14. Modern festivals focus on immersive and experiential elements like hands-on workshops, interactive performances, and opportunities for direct participation.

 

Q15. Can technology enhance festival experiences in Korea?

 

A15. Yes, technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and drone light shows are being integrated to create more engaging and visually stunning festival experiences.

 

Q16. What does "K-Traditional Culture" refer to?

 

A16. It refers to the reinterpretation and modernization of traditional Korean culture, such as hanbok and cuisine, to make them relevant and appealing to contemporary audiences.

 

Q17. Are there festivals focused on specific Korean industries, like beauty?

 

A17. Yes, the Korea Beauty Festival is an example that celebrates and promotes K-beauty, attracting international enthusiasts and showcasing related trends.

 

Q18. What are some examples of regional festivals?

 

A18. Examples include the Andong Mask Dance Festival, celebrating traditional mask dances, and the Yeongdeok Snow Crab Festival, highlighting regional produce.

 

Q19. What is the significance of Children's Day?

 

A19. Children's Day on May 5th celebrates children and their well-being, emphasizing their importance in Korean society and encouraging family time.

 

Q20. When is Buddha's Birthday celebrated?

 

A20. Buddha's Birthday follows the lunar calendar, falling on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month.

 

Q21. What is Memorial Day for in Korea?

 

A21. Memorial Day on June 6th honors soldiers and civilians who died serving the country, particularly in times of conflict.

 

Q22. What does National Foundation Day commemorate?

 

A22. National Foundation Day on October 3rd celebrates the legendary founding of the Korean nation by Dangun Wanggeom.

 

Q23. What are some typical spring festivals in Korea?

 

A23. Spring festivals often feature flowers, such as cherry blossoms and daffodils, offering refreshing and picturesque outdoor experiences.

 

Q24. What kind of festivals are popular in summer?

 

A24. Summer festivals are often energetic and can be water-centric, like the Boryeong Mud Festival, alongside music events and food celebrations.

 

Q25. What are some common winter festivals?

 

A25. Winter festivals often include ice and snow activities, like ice fishing, as well as indoor cultural events and year-end celebrations.

 

Q26. What is the significance of visiting ancestral graves during holidays?

 

A26. Visiting ancestral graves (seongmyo) is a profound act of respect for lineage and continuity, a key tradition during Seollal and Chuseok.

 

Q27. What is sebae?

 

A27. Sebae is a ceremonial deep bow performed by younger generations to their elders during Seollal, typically followed by blessings and monetary gifts.

 

Q28. How does the lunar calendar affect Korean holidays?

 

A28. Many of Korea's most important traditional holidays, like Seollal and Chuseok, are based on the lunar calendar, meaning their dates change each year on the Gregorian calendar.

 

Q29. What are some examples of food celebrated during festivals?

 

A29. Tteokguk (rice cake soup) is iconic for Seollal, while songpyeon (rice cakes) are central to Chuseok. Harvest festivals also highlight seasonal produce like snow crabs.

 

Q30. Is it advisable to travel during Seollal and Chuseok?

 

A30. Traveling domestically during these times can be challenging due to heavy traffic and closures. However, major tourist sites often remain open and host special events, making it feasible with careful planning.

 

Disclaimer

This article is written for general information purposes and cannot replace professional advice.

Summary

South Korea boasts a rich calendar of national holidays and dynamic festivals, blending traditional customs with modern trends. Key celebrations like Seollal and Chuseok emphasize family and ancestral respect, while other national holidays commemorate historical events and cultural milestones. Festivals are increasingly immersive, featuring nighttime activities and leveraging K-culture's global appeal, offering visitors diverse experiences throughout the year.

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