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