Constitution Day in South Korea

Constitution Day is a holiday that’s observed on the 17th of July in South Korea and honors the anniversary of when the first South Korean Constitution was declared by the first National Assembly on this day in 1948. This holiday was created in the late 1940s and has been observed in South Korea ever since.

Over the last few years, this day has been changed from a public holiday on which the general public would receive a day off to merely a commemorative day that’s observed but isn’t a day off. It’s a day observed by current members of the government, and with special activities such as marathons.

The History Of Constitution Day In South Korea

After WWII, Korea was occupied by Soviet forces in the north and by Allied forces to the south. In 1948, a democratic election for National Assembly members was held in the Allied portion of South Korea.

These elected officials then created a constitution, one that was a unicameral system with a president. On July 17, 1949, President Syngman Rhee formally adopted this new constitution and on August 15, 1948, the Republic of Korea was established.

Observing Constitution Day In South Korea

On this commemorative holiday, a ceremony is held with the Chairman of the National Assembly, the President of South Korea, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Ordinary citizens also attend events that highlight the importance of this holiday and hang the national flag on their homes and places of business.

All across the country, special events are also held on this day. One of these events is a marathon in which everyone can take part. It’s a day on which all South Koreans can take the time to take pride in their country.

Where is it celebrated?
South Korea (Observance)
When is it?
This year (2023)
July 17 Monday
Next year (2024)
July 17 Wednesday
Last year (2022)
July 17 Sunday