Korean Holidays Explained
Buddha's Birthday
In 2026: Sun, May 24Public holiday
Follows the lunar calendar, so the solar date changes every year.
See the 2026 holiday calendar →Where it comes from
Celebrates the birth of the Buddha on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month.
What people do
Temples hang colorful lotus lanterns; in Seoul, the Yeondeunghoe lantern festival (on UNESCO's intangible heritage list) fills the streets.
What people eat
Many temples share free bibimbap and tea with visitors.
What to say
부처님오신날 연등 보러 갈래요?bucheonimosinnal yeondeung boreo gallaeyo?Want to go see the lanterns for Buddha's Birthday?