Hangeul Day Description
Hangeul Day (한글날) on October 9th celebrates the creation and proclamation of Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, by King Sejong the Great in 1443 (proclaimed in 1446 as Hunminjeongeum, 'The Proper Sounds for the Instruction of the People'). Hangeul is widely celebrated as a remarkable linguistic achievement — a scientifically designed writing system praised by linguists worldwide for its logical structure and accessibility. The National Hangeul Museum in Seoul holds special exhibitions, lectures, and interactive events throughout the holiday period. The statue of King Sejong at Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul is a focal point, with wreath-laying ceremonies. Government offices, banks, post offices, and schools are closed. Hangeul Day was reinstated as a public holiday in 2013 after being removed from the holiday list in 1991. In 2026, October 9th falls on a Friday, creating a natural long weekend for many workers. Cultural events, calligraphy exhibitions, and Korean language competitions are held at schools and cultural centers nationwide. Retail businesses generally remain open.
