Korean Lunar Calendar 2026

Historical background: Korea used the lunisolar calendar (음력, eumnyeok) for over 2,000 years. The Gregorian calendar (양력, yangnyeok) was officially adopted in 1896, but traditional customs remain tied to lunar dates. Many older Koreans still celebrate their birthday on the lunar calendar date.

How the lunar calendar works: The lunar calendar follows moon phases. Each month begins on a new moon and lasts about 29.5 days. To keep seasons aligned, a leap month (윤달) is added roughly every 3 years. This is why Seollal and Chuseok fall on different Gregorian dates each year.

Holidays you need to know: Seollal (설날) and Chuseok (추석) are the two biggest holidays. Each is a 3-day break. Expect extreme traffic, sold-out trains and flights, and many businesses to be closed. Book travel weeks in advance if you plan to go anywhere during these periods.

Traffic (교통 대란): During Seollal and Chuseok, millions of Koreans travel to their hometowns. A normally 3-hour drive from Seoul to Busan can take 8-12 hours. KTX (고속열차) tickets sell out weeks in advance. Airports and bus terminals are extremely crowded.

Businesses closed: Most restaurants, shops, and small businesses close during Seollal and Chuseok. Large chain stores and convenience stores (편의점) usually stay open. Tourist areas in Seoul may have reduced hours. Hospitals and clinics also close for the holiday.

Gift-giving culture (선물 문화): Koreans exchange gifts before major holidays. Popular gifts include fruit sets (과일 세트), Korean beef (한우), spam gift sets (스팸 선물세트), and health supplements (건강식품). If invited to a Korean family gathering, bring a gift. Department stores have dedicated holiday gift sections.

Lunar birthdays: If your Korean friend celebrates their birthday on the lunar calendar (음력 생일), the date changes every year on the Gregorian calendar. Ask which date they celebrate to avoid confusion. Most younger Koreans use the solar calendar for birthdays.