List of 11 public holidays in Korea South for 2027, including New Year's Day, Seollal (Lunar New Year), Independence Movement Day and more.
South Korea's holiday culture is a vibrant blend of ancient tradition and modern flair, centered heavily around family reunions and ancestral rites. The two most significant lunar-based holidays, Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Harvest Festival), transform the nation into a hub of traditional food, folk games, and communal gatherings.
Expect massive traffic congestion on highways and fully booked trains or flights as millions travel to their hometowns. Most small businesses and many restaurants close for two to three days during Seollal and Chuseok, though large malls and major tourist sites in Seoul often remain open. Public transport operates on limited holiday schedules.
Avoid scheduling meetings during the weeks of Seollal or Chuseok as many professionals take extended leave. It is common to exchange gift sets with business partners. Acknowledging a colleague's holiday plans with a polite inquiry shows respect for their family traditions.
Visit in April or October for mild weather and to avoid the major holiday rushes. To experience festivities without travel chaos, stay in Seoul during Seollal or Chuseok; the city is quiet, and palaces offer special traditional performances.
During Seollal, people say 'Saehae bok mani badeuseyo' (Please receive many blessings in the New Year). For Chuseok, 'Jeulgeoun hangawi doeseyo' (Have a happy Harvest Festival) is common.