By Honorary Reporter Preeti Rawat from India

Illustration = Preeti Rawat

May is known as "Family Month" for having Children's Day, Parents' Day and Teachers' Day.

May is known as "Family Month" in Korea as three important days honoring family members and teachers are observed this month: Children's Day, Parents' Day, and Teachers' Day.

Children's Day

This national holiday was first celebrated in 1923 by Bang Jeong-hwan, an independence and children's rights activist. In 1945, May 5 was designated the day to mark the occasion and the legislation of the Child Welfare Act in 1961 added official legal status. On this day, parents usually take their children out to parks or other fun places, provide treats and buy gifts.

Parents' Day

Unlike other countries that have separate days for each parent, Korea observes Parents' Day. The concept of Mother's Day is believed to have been introduced to the nation by Christian missionaries, and in 1956, the country's first president, Rhee Syng-man, declared May 8 as Mother's Day. As calls for a Father's Day grew, Mother's Day was changed to Parents' Day in 1973. On this day, children give their parents handmade carnations and letters and eat meals with them.

Teachers' Day

Falling on May 15 in Korea, this day was started in 1963 when Red Cross youths visited their sick teacher in the hospital. In 1965, this occasion was moved from May 26 to May 15 to coincide with the birthday of King Sejong the Great to honor his teachings and contributions.

On this day, students give their teachers carnations and "love cards" of gratitude. The Ministry of Education also gives an award to one outstanding teacher in the nation.


kalhong617@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.