South Korea's calendar is anchored by two lunar festivals — Seollal and Chuseok — each running three days and shifting every year, alongside fixed civic dates.

How people take the days

Substitute holidays apply when major holidays fall on a weekend, a system expanded in recent years. Seollal and Chuseok produce the heaviest domestic travel of the year as families return to home towns.

If you're visiting

Department stores and restaurants often close on the two lunar holidays, which surprises visitors expecting Korea's usual round-the-clock trading. Intercity tickets sell out weeks ahead.

If you live here

Fifteen days of annual leave after a year of service is the statutory base. Public holidays became mandatory paid leave for private employers on a phased schedule completed in 2022.

Nearby countries

Neighbours of South Korea — see their holidays, or compare the two calendars side by side.

What these days actually mean

Observance, business closures and transport impact for the next few dates.

Christmas Day

25 Dec 2026

Public

Observance: The central Christian winter feast; in most countries the household gathering matters more than the church service.
Business: Near-total closure of retail, offices and banks. Expect the preceding afternoon to shut early too.
Transport: Skeleton or suspended services in many countries. Book intercity travel well ahead.