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Work and School Closures

Guidelines on how public holidays affect work schedules, school closures, and business operations across the country.

Sections

1. National Regulations Governing Work and School Closures

South Korea has a well-defined system of public holidays regulated by the government. These holidays are observed nationwide, and closures for schools and workplaces are typically mandated by law or custom. The key regulations include:

  • The Labor Standards Act: This law ensures that employees are entitled to rest on public holidays. If employees are required to work on these days, they must be compensated with overtime pay or an alternative day off.
  • The Framework Act on Education: This governs school operations, including closures on public holidays.
  • Enforcement Decrees: Specific decrees outline which public holidays are mandatory for closures in both public and private sectors.

2. Typical Public Holidays When Work and Schools Are Closed

South Korea observes 16 official public holidays (as of 2023), during which most schools and workplaces are closed. Below is a list of these holidays, along with their cultural significance:

National Public Holidays

  1. New Year’s Day (January 1)

    • A day for rest and reflection. Most businesses and schools are closed.

  2. Seollal (Lunar New Year, 3 days)

    • One of the most important holidays in Korea, typically lasting three days (the day before, the day of, and the day after Lunar New Year). Families gather to perform ancestral rites and share traditional meals. Schools and workplaces are closed.

  3. Independence Movement Day (March 1)

    • Commemorates the 1919 independence movement against Japanese colonial rule. Schools and workplaces are closed.

  4. Buddha’s Birthday (8th day of the 4th lunar month)

    • A cultural and religious holiday. Schools and many workplaces are closed.

  5. Children’s Day (May 5)

    • A day to celebrate children. Schools are closed, and many parents take the day off to spend time with their families.

  6. Memorial Day (June 6)

    • Honors those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Schools and workplaces are closed.

  7. Liberation Day (August 15)

    • Celebrates Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule in 1945. Schools and workplaces are closed.

  8. Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving, 3 days)

    • Another major holiday, lasting three days (the day before, the day of, and the day after). Families gather to honor ancestors and share traditional meals. Schools and workplaces are closed.

  9. National Foundation Day (October 3)

    • Celebrates the founding of the Korean nation. Schools and workplaces are closed.

  10. Hangeul Day (October 9)

  • Celebrates the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangeul. Schools and workplaces are closed.
  1. Christmas Day (December 25)
  • A public holiday, though not as widely celebrated as in Western countries. Schools and workplaces are closed.

Election Days and Special Holidays

  • Election Days (e.g., presidential or parliamentary elections) are designated as public holidays to encourage voter participation. Schools and workplaces are closed.
  • Temporary Holidays: The government may declare temporary holidays for special occasions, such as hosting international events or during national emergencies.

3. Economic Considerations and Associated Costs

Public holidays in South Korea have both positive and negative economic impacts:

Positive Impacts

  • Boost to Domestic Tourism: Many Koreans travel domestically during long holidays like Seollal and Chuseok, benefiting the tourism and hospitality industries.
  • Retail Sales: Holidays like Chuseok and Seollal see a surge in spending on gifts, food, and traditional goods.

Negative Impacts

  • Lost Productivity: Mandatory closures can lead to reduced output in industries that cannot operate during holidays.
  • Overcrowding and Price Hikes: Travel and accommodation costs often spike during major holidays, creating financial strain for families.

4. Standard Procedures for Closures

The procedures for closures on public holidays are generally straightforward:

For Workplaces

  • Mandatory Closures: Government offices, banks, and most private companies close on public holidays.
  • Compensation for Work: Employees required to work on public holidays must receive overtime pay (150% of regular wages) or an alternative day off.

For Schools

  • Public Schools: Automatically closed on public holidays.
  • Private Schools: Typically follow the public school calendar but may have additional closures for cultural or religious reasons.

For Businesses

  • Essential Services: Hospitals, transportation, and emergency services remain operational, though they may run on reduced schedules.
  • Retail and Restaurants: Many remain open, especially in urban areas, to cater to tourists and residents.

5. Cultural and Country-Specific Factors

South Korea’s public holidays are deeply rooted in its history, culture, and traditions. Here are some key cultural considerations:

  • Family-Centric Holidays: Seollal and Chuseok are family-oriented holidays, and it is customary for people to travel to their hometowns. This leads to significant traffic congestion and fully booked transportation.
  • Gift-Giving Traditions: During Seollal and Chuseok, it is common to exchange gifts such as food hampers, fruits, and health supplements.
  • Respect for Ancestry: Many holidays involve rituals to honor ancestors, reflecting the Confucian values deeply embedded in Korean culture.
  • Modern Adaptations: Younger generations are increasingly using holidays for leisure travel or personal relaxation rather than traditional practices.

6. Practical Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Plan Ahead: If you’re traveling during major holidays like Seollal or Chuseok, book transportation and accommodations well in advance.
  • Expect Closures: Many businesses, especially in smaller towns, may close during major holidays. Stock up on essentials beforehand.
  • Participate in Cultural Events: Public holidays often feature cultural festivals, parades, and performances. These are great opportunities to experience Korean traditions.
  • Check Work Policies: If you’re employed in South Korea, confirm your company’s holiday policies, as some private companies may have additional closures or require work on certain holidays.

Conclusion

Public holidays in South Korea are a mix of cultural, historical, and modern observances that reflect the nation’s values and traditions. Work and school closures are regulated by law, ensuring that people have time to rest and celebrate. Understanding these holidays and their cultural significance can help visitors and immigrants navigate life in South Korea more effectively.