Lunar New Year, or Seollal, is one of Korea's most significant traditional holidays, celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar. It’s a time when families gather to honor their ancestors, express gratitude, and wish for good fortune in the coming year.
Seollal traditions include rituals such as sebae (bowing to elders), offering ancestral rites, and sharing well-wishes. Children enjoy receiving sebaetdon (New Year’s money) from adults as they perform sebae. A traditional dish, tteokguk (rice cake soup), is eaten to symbolize aging one year.
Traditional games like yutnori and ganggangsullae add to the festive mood of the holiday.
2025 Lunar New Year Holiday Schedule
The 2025 official holidays for Lunar New Year are as follows:
- January 27, 2025 (Monday): Substitute Public Holiday
- January 28, 2025 (Tuesday): Lunar New Year Holiday
- January 29, 2025 (Wednesday): Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day)
- January 30, 2025 (Thursday): Extended Holiday
Many companies and schools extend the holiday period to allow more time for travel and rest. Some workplaces may also give employees January 31 (Friday) off, creating a 9-day holiday from January 25 (Saturday) to February 2 (Sunday).
2025 January Calendar
Sun | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |||
5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 (Substitute Holiday) |
28 (Holiday) |
29 (Seollal) |
30 (Holiday) |
31 |
Travel and Preparation Tips
Thanks to the extended holiday, many people plan domestic and international trips during this time. Popular destinations include Jeju Island, Southeast Asia, Japan, Guam, and Saipan. Early booking for flights and accommodations is recommended, as prices may rise due to high demand.
If you prefer a quieter holiday, staying in the city can be a great option to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere while others travel.
Store and Service Closures
During the Lunar New Year period, many businesses, restaurants, and clinics may adjust their hours or remain closed, especially on January 29, 2025 (Seollal). Be sure to prepare essential items in advance.
Major supermarkets or franchise stores may operate on limited hours or resume regular business after the holiday period, so check their schedules ahead of time.
Conclusion
Lunar New Year is a time to embrace Korea's traditional culture and strengthen family bonds. Whether you plan to travel or spend time at home, take this opportunity to recharge and start the year with positive energy. Happy Lunar New Year!