The Meaning and History Behind the National Holidays in South Korea in May 2024
In Korea, May has two public holidays. Also, while May 8th is not an official public holiday, it is ‘Parents’ Day. Let’s take a look back at the significance of May‘s public holidays. Enjoy reading and happy holidays
May 5, 2024 Children’s Day (어린이날)
Children’s Day (어린이날) is a designated day to promote the well-being and development of children, encouraging them to grow up to be righteous, wise, and courageous individuals. It is a day to cherish and show affection towards children. This year, as May 5th falls on a Sunday, May 6th is designated as a substitute public holiday.
How Did the Children’s Day Start in South Korea?
In the wake of the March 1st Independence Movement in 1919, youth organizations began to emerge across various regions in order to instill national spirit among children. Bang Jeong-hwan, among others who were studying at Japanese universities at the time, played a leading role in this initiative and designated May 1st as ‘Children’s Day’.
Later, in 1927, the date was changed to the first Sunday of May. Bang was an activist during the Japanese occupation period, as well as a promoter of children’s culture, an educator, and a social activist, being one of the founders of Children’s Day.
May 15, 2024 Buddha’s Birthday (부처님 오신날)
commemorates the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. In the lunar calendar, Buddha’s Birthday falls on the Apirl 8th, which in 2024 corresponds to the May 15th in the Gregorian calendar.
It is considered the most significant Buddhist festival, marked by various ceremonies such as memorial services and lantern festivals. Celebrations occur not only in South Korea but also in countries like China, Japan, and India. The day holds great significance, symbolizing the enlightenment Siddhartha attained and his teachings.
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