Seollal: Korean New Year in South Korea
Seollal is South Korea’s public holiday for the first day of the lunar year, observed across three days: the day before, the day itself, and the day after. It is a major family holiday associated with ancestral rites, greetings to elders, rice cake soup, and journeys to hometowns.[1][2][3]
Calendar and public-holiday status
South Korea’s Act on Public Holidays names the day before Seollal, Seollal, and the day after as public holidays. Their dates follow the lunar calendar, so their Gregorian dates change each year.[1]
The law allows a substitute public holiday when a public holiday overlaps a Saturday, Sunday, or another public holiday; the details are set by presidential decree. The law says application of public holidays is governed by relevant statutes, including the Labor Standards Act. Government offices and banks close on official holidays, while shops and attractions may have different hours.[1][3]
Meaning and family customs
Seollal marks the start of the lunar year. The National Folk Museum of Korea describes it as one of Korea’s most important traditional holidays, associated with beginning the year with a clean state of mind and wishes for prosperity.[2]
Customs vary by household. Families may perform charye, a memorial rite for ancestors, and younger people may perform sebae, a formal bow to elders, with New Year’s greetings. Tteokguk, soup made with sliced rice cakes, is a familiar holiday food; traditional games such as yut nori are also enjoyed.[3]
Travel and opening hours
Many people travel to their hometowns to spend Seollal with family, so stations, bus terminals, and roads can become busy around the holiday. Check transport schedules and reserve journeys early if traveling during this period.[3][4]
Government offices and banks are generally closed on official holidays. Many businesses close for some or all of the Seollal period, while some palaces, museums, department stores, and leisure facilities may remain open. Check individual opening hours before setting out.[3]
Frequently asked questions
When is Seollal?
Is Seollal a public holiday in South Korea?
Yes. South Korean law designates the day before Seollal, Seollal, and the day after as public holidays. The application of public holidays is governed by relevant laws, including the Labor Standards Act.[1]
Are shops and attractions open?
Government offices and banks close on official holidays. Some businesses also close, while certain palaces, museums, department stores, and leisure facilities may remain open; check each venue’s hours.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for Korean New Year in South Korea:
- ACT ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS- Korea Legislation Research Institute
- National Folk Museum of Korea - 영어 > Collection > Folk story > Traditional Rites and Rituals > Seollal Charye Table- National Folk Museum of Korea
- Korea’s Four Major National Holidays- Seoul Metropolitan Government
- Public Holidays- VISITKOREA- Korea Tourism Organization