ContentsView article sectionsAbout Constitution Day 제헌절History of Constitution DayCelebrating Constitution Day in KoreaPotential Inconveniences on Constitution Day in KoreaHow to Source Additional Information About LocationsWondering about Constitution Day 제헌절 in Korea? Then, here is a quick overview of this holiday celebrating the proclamation of the constitution for Korea. The following post doesn’t just explain the holiday meaning, it also provides insight into how the holiday may be celebrated and how you can incorporate the holiday into your life as an ex-pats living in South Korea. About Constitution Day 제헌절 Constitution Day 제헌절 is a national holiday and is a  ‘red day’ or public holiday on the Korean calendar. A ‘red day’ means that salaried employees have a paid day off for a Korean public holiday. In 2008, Constitution Day is no longer considered a “no work” holiday. For the past 18 years, it has been considered a commemorative holiday. However, in 2026, the holiday was added back as an official public holiday and is now a ‘red day’ again. Constitution Day (제헌절 Jeheonjeol) is observed on July 17 annually to commemorate the first Korean constitution becoming law. Although the constitution was ratified into law on July 12, it was decided to celebrate the day on July 17. Therefore, the date was chosen to commemorate the event since July 17 was already a significant day to Koreans (the day when the Joseon dynasty was founded). Constitution Day became a holiday in Korea on October 1, 1949. The holiday commemorates the adoption of the constitution and promotes patriotism and civic education. History of Constitution Day Korea had been under Japanese rule from 1910-1945. However, in August of 1945 when Korea was liberated from Japan, there was still a struggle between the United States and Russia (the Cold War). Therefore, Korea did not have an election for the National Assembly until 1948. Once the members were elected, they began working on creating a constitution for Korea. The Constitution of South Korea established the framework for the government and democracy of the country. In addition, it stated the basic principles of the government, including how the powers would be separated and the rights and responsibilities of the citizens. Since that time, Korea has made significant progress in building a democratic society. Therefore, Constitution Day is a reminder of Korea’s values and the importance of protecting and upholding the constitution. The following videos provide additional insight into Constitution Day in South Korea. Watch these videos to learn more. Celebrating Constitution Day in Korea Constitution Day is reinstated as a red day as of 2026. However, in the past 18 years, it has not beenas widely celebrated as the other national public holidays. At the National Assembly Building in the Yeouido area of Seoul, a celebration is held on Constitution Day in the morning. Also, many schools and civic organizations offer educational programs on the Constitution to increase awareness of democratic values and principles. In addition, public figures may deliver speeches that day. Overall, Constitution Day is a to celebrate and reflect on Korea’s democratic values and the principles on which the government is built. As an international resident in South Korea, Constitution Day may be a great time to learn more about the Korean constitution. You can read the Korean Constitution online in English. Honestly, knowing the contents of the constitution of a country where you have resident status is important. South of Seoul volunteers deeply hopes you find the time to read through this important document. You can also use the Korean/ English translation of the Korean constitution to help study for your TOPIK exam. You can also download the Korean Constitution in English here: Potential Inconveniences on Constitution Day in Korea Since Constitution Day is a red day (where salaried employees and school children have off), you may experience increased traffic and crowds. Additionally, general businesses may change their hours. How to Source Additional Information About Locations If you have questions about things like business hours, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. In addition, using apps like Naver can help you navigate with expected traffic times. SOUTH OF SEOUL EDITORIAL INFORMATION Article Information & History Historical Record Originally written by KimchiRednecks Originally published March 7, 2023 Article History July 26, 2026 Article edited About 7% of the article changed March 7, 2023 Article edited About 8% of the article changed March 7, 2023 Article edited About 2% of the article changed March 7, 2023 Article edited About 19% of the article changed March 7, 2023 Article edited Less than 1% of the article changed March 7, 2023 Originally published Written by KimchiRednecks No formal audit has been recorded for this article under the current South of Seoul editorial process. Historical article: This article has not yet been formally audited under South of Seoul’s current editorial process. It remains available as part of our publishing history and may contain information that has changed since publication. Before You Act South of Seoul articles document information available at a particular point in time. 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