Children's Day in South Korea Date in the current year: May 5, 2024

In 1922, Bang Jeong-hwan with a group of Korean students and social leaders came up with the idea of celebrating a holiday that would focus on promoting and improving the social status of Korean children. The first Children's Day was celebrated on May 1, 1923. Korea was occupied by Japan at the time, and Japanese authorities tried to ban the celebrations.

When Korea gained independence in 1945, the holiday was revived. In 1961, the new date of Children's Day was established. The holiday was moved to May 5 because it coincided with labor Day (International Workers' Day). In the 1970s, it became an officially designated public holiday.

Korean Children's Day not only focuses on celebrating the dignity of children and highlighting their need for care, love, and respect, but also honors adults who contribute to improving the children's lives.

On the occasion of the holiday, national parks, zoos, and amusement parks organize various activities for children and their parents. Children play traditional games and are given holiday gifts.