What Is Hangul Day in Korea?

A Korean Girl Explains What Hangul Day Is in Korea

Hangul Day, also known as Korean Alphabet Day, is an official holiday in Korea.

Here’s what Hangul Day is, when it is, and how Koreans celebrate it!

Quick Summary

  • Hangul Day is a national holiday celebrating the creation of the Korean alphabet, every October 9th.
  • Hunminjeongeum Manuscript was published on September 10, 1446, of the lunar calendar, which converts to October 9th.
  • Since 2019, California has been celebrating October 9th as Hangul Day.
  • Many companies have fun logo changes and distribute Hangul fonts on this day.

1. What Is Hangul Day in South Korea?

Hangul Day is a national holiday celebrating the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangul, every October 9th.

It honors King Sejong the Great, one of the most respected figures in South Korea, who published Hunminjeongeum, the manuscript introducing Hangul in 1446.

Hangul Day celebrates the originality and scientific principles of Hangul and raises awareness of its importance.

2. Why Is Hangul Day on October 9th?

While the exact date of Hangul creation is unknown, October 9th was chosen based on a historical discovery in 1940.

Hunminjeongeum Manuscript (Haerye or Commentaries) was discovered in 1940 and registered as UNESCO Memory of the World in 1997.

The manuscript noted that it was published on September 10, 1446, of the lunar calendar.

When this date is converted, it’s October 9th.

3. Is There Hangul Day in the United States?

Yes!

According to the Korea Times article, California declared October 9th as Hangul Day in 2019.

The resolution passed unanimously in the California Senate, marking an important step in recognizing the global significance of Hangul.

4. How Do Koreans Celebrate Hangul Day?

Koreans celebrate Hangul Day in fun and meaningful ways.

We first try to minimize the usage of loanwords.

Search engines like Naver change their logos into Hangul versions to honor the day.

There’s even Google Doodle of a Hangul-inspired version for Korean users!

Additionally, many individuals and organizations distribute free Hangul fonts every Hangul Day to promote the use of Hangul.

Hangul Day is also the last public holiday before Christmas, so Koreans make sure to enjoy this day before a long stretch of workdays.

Conclusion

Hangul Day is not just about celebrating an alphabet. It’s a tribute to Korea’s linguistic heritage and a source of national pride.

Whether through fun logo changes or global recognition, Hangul Day is a unique holiday.

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