Children’s Day in South Korea
Children’s Day, or Eorininal (어린이날), is observed in South Korea every May 5. It celebrates children and expresses the hope that they will grow with love, protection and respect.[1][5]
A public holiday with a legal basis
South Korean law designates May 5 as Children’s Day and May 1 through 7 as Children’s Week. The Child Welfare Act says the day is intended to strengthen the spirit of love and protection for children and support their healthy growth.[1]
The Public Holidays of Government Offices regulation lists May 5 as a public holiday. It also provides a substitute day when Children’s Day falls on Saturday or Sunday: the first following day that is not itself a public holiday. The Labor Standards Act provides for paid public holidays for employees covered by its rules.[3][4]
Origins and meaning
Children’s Day in Korea grew from an effort to treat children as people deserving respect. Bang Jeong-hwan and others established the Saekdonghoe children’s organization in 1923 and set May 1 as Children’s Day. At an early celebration, organizers distributed a message asking adults to speak gently to children and recognize them as independent persons.[2]
The day was moved to the first Sunday in May in 1927, then suspended under Japanese colonial rule in 1939. After liberation, May 5 was selected in 1946. The Child Welfare Act later supplied a statutory basis for the date, and Children’s Week was added in 2004.[2]
How families and communities observe it
Many families mark the day by spending time together and taking children to places chosen for play or entertainment. The Korea Tourism Organization lists city parks, amusement parks, zoos and movie theaters among venues that hold special events for children and families.[5]
Public programs can include cultural activities as well as outings. For example, a nationwide Children’s Literature Week included library exhibitions and performances, while the National Museum of Korea’s Children’s Museum hosted an interactive exhibition for children and parents. These are examples of past programming; schedules and activities vary by place and year.[6]
What visitors can expect
Government offices and banks close on official public holidays, according to the Korea Tourism Organization. Palaces, museums, department stores and amusement facilities generally remain open, though hours and individual venue schedules can differ. Check directly with a specific attraction or business before setting out.[5]
The public-holiday designation does not mean that every private shop or service closes. For workers, paid public holidays are governed by the Labor Standards Act and its coverage rules; employers and schedules may differ. Children’s Day is a busy family outing day at participating attractions, so checking opening details and arranging tickets where offered can make a visit easier.[4][5]
Frequently asked questions
When is Children’s Day in South Korea?
It is observed on May 5 each year, and May 1 through 7 is designated Children’s Week under the Child Welfare Act.[1]
Is Children’s Day a public holiday?
Is there a substitute day if May 5 falls on a weekend?
Yes. The regulation provides for the first following non-holiday as a substitute when Children’s Day falls on Saturday or Sunday.[3]
What is open on Children’s Day?
Palaces, museums, department stores and amusement facilities generally open on Korean public holidays, but hours vary. Check the specific venue before visiting.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Children's Day in South Korea:
- 조문정보- Korea Legislation Research Institute, National Law Information Center
- 어린이날- Presidential Archives of the Republic of Korea
- 현행법령 > 법령명 > 관공서의 공휴일에 관한 규정- Korea Legislation Research Institute, National Law Information Center
- LABOR STANDARDS ACT- Korea Legislation Research Institute, National Law Information Center
- Public Holidays- Korea Tourism Organization
- 100th edition of Children's Day to feature array of events- Korea.net, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism