Memorial Day
Guide to the date, history, cultural origins and celebration traditions of Memorial Day in South Korea.
History & Origins of Memorial Day
Memorial Day (Hyeonchung-il) in South Korea, observed on June 6th, honors the military personnel and civilians who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Historically established in 1956, the date of June 6th was chosen because it aligns with the traditional agricultural solar term 'Mangjong', a time when grain is harvested and ancestors are remembered, and it is the month the Korean War broke out.
How It Is Observed & Celebrated
A national siren sounds at 10:00 AM across the entire country, during which citizens observe one minute of silent prayer. The national flag is flown at half-mast, and solemn memorial services are held at the National Cemetery in Seoul, attended by the president and veterans.
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