JapanvsSouth Korea
Nationwide public holidays in 2026. Regional days are left out — they only apply in some areas.
2
Days you're both off
14
Only Japan
16
Only South Korea
What the numbers say
In 2026, Japan has 16 nationwide public holidays and South Korea has 18, so South Korea gets 2 more days off. They line up on 2 dates, including 元日 and こどもの日.
What matters for time off is how many land on weekdays: Japan has 16 on working days (0 fall on a weekend), against 16 for South Korea (2 on a weekend).
For short breaks, Japan offers 8 long weekends (a Monday or Friday holiday) and 4 possible bridge days (a Tuesday or Thursday holiday); South Korea offers 10 and 4. They're level on bridge days. The busiest month is May in Japan and February in South Korea.
Shared days
Both countries close. Nothing gets done either side.
Only Japan
South Korea is working — expect one-sided quiet.
Only South Korea
Japan is working these days.
Full calendars: Japan · South Korea