Origin & history
Children's Day in South Korea originated from the child welfare movement of the early 20th century. In 1922, writer and activist Bang Jeong-hwan proposed a day to celebrate children and promote their well-being, inspired by Western Children's Day and Japanese Boys' Day. The first celebration was held on May 1, 1922, during a time of Japanese colonial rule, as part of broader efforts to instill pride and hope in Korean youth. However, it was not a public holiday then.
After Korea's liberation in 1945, Children's Day continued unofficially until 1975, when the government designated May 5th as a public holiday. The date was chosen to avoid overlap with other holidays and to coincide with pleasant spring weather. Bang Jeong-hwan's vision of raising children with love and respect remains the foundation of the holiday.
Customs & traditions
On Children's Day, families typically take their children on outings to parks, amusement parks, zoos, or cultural events. Museums and public facilities often offer free or discounted admission to children. Parents give gifts such as toys, books, or clothes, and many children participate in parades or performances organized by schools or communities. Traditional games like yutnori (a board game) or kite flying are also popular.
Food plays a role, with families enjoying special meals or eating out. Favorite children's foods include samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly), fried chicken, or Korean barbecue. Desserts like ice cream or cakes round out the celebration. In recent years, the holiday has also become a day for advocating children's rights and addressing issues like bullying or education, with charities and organizations holding events to support underprivileged children.
Why it is celebrated
Children's Day in South Korea underscores the nation's commitment to the happiness, rights, and development of children. It serves as a reminder that children are the future, and the holiday promotes values of love, respect, and care for the younger generation. Beyond family celebrations, it also fosters social awareness about child welfare, safety, and education, reinforcing the idea that society as a whole has a responsibility to nurture children.