Independence Movement Day

📣 Traveler notes

South Korea is an affluent East Asian nation characterized by advanced technology and vibrant pop culture (K-pop), while also preserving strong traditional cultural elements and historical sites. Be aware that major national holidays, such as Lunar New Year and Chuseok, can cause severe travel congestion.

• Many national holidays follow the lunar calendar and vary yearly.
• Major holidays involve significant population movement, resulting in heavy travel congestion.
• Banks and government offices typically close on most national holidays, but general daily life continues.
• Use specialized Korean utensils (spoon and metal chopsticks). During meals, do not speak and avoid lifting dishes. Do not place chopsticks or spoons upright in rice bowls, as this is associated with funeral rites.