Wondering about Korean Memorial Day (현충일 Hyunchungil) in Korea? Have a quick look at this national holiday observed on June 6th. 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 Memorial Day 현충일 In South Korea, Memorial Day referred to as Hyunchungil 현충일 is considered a “red day” or public holiday. A ‘red day’ means that salaried employees have a paid day off for Memorial Day, June 6. (When this day lands on the weekend, Koreans celebrate on an alternate day such as Friday or Monday). Also, red days are typically days of rest, reflection, and commemoration. Memorial Day or Hyunchungil 현충일 sets aside June 6 to remember and honor the sacrifices and contributions of fallen soldiers and military personnel who died serving their country. In addition, Memorial Day commemorates the sacrifices of those from the Korean War, Vietnam War, the Battle of Bongoh Town, and the Battle of Cheongsanri. Observed annually on June 6, ceremonies, speeches, and tributes to the fallen heroes commemorate the day. Since 1954, Korea dedicated June as the month dedicated to the veterans of war and patriots. However, Korea declared it a public holiday on April 19 of 1956 to honor the sacrifices of military personnel who died defending their country. The day, referred to as Hyunchungil, since Hyunchung 현충 refers to the praise of loyal martyrs and il 일 means day. The following video provides more information on Memorial Day (현충일 Hyunchungil). Celebrating Memorial Day in Korea Korea celebrates June 6, Memorial Day (현충일 Hyunchungil) with memorial ceremonies, speeches, and other events to pay tribute to the fallen heroes. This day reminds Koreans of the sacrifices made by military personnel as they protect and defend their country. The most significant memorial ceremony occurs at Seoul National Cemetery or Daejeon National Cemetery each year. On June 6 at 10 a.m., a siren rings all over Korea. Koreans observe a minute of silence to honor the fallen heroes. The Korean flag is typically raised to half-staff and the memorial song, Song of Memorial Day” (현충일 노래), is played or sung. Also, cars and people on the streets often stop at this moment to pay their respect as well. During Memorial Day, Koreans often attend memorial ceremonies or events to commemorate the day. Furthermore, many Koreans visit war memorials or museums across the country. Moreover, family members and government officials lay flowers or wreaths on the graves of fallen soldiers. Businesses often display the Korean national flag on their front doors during the month of June to honor the fallen. Potential Inconveniences on Memorial Day in Korea Obviously, any of the following inconveniences may or may not occur depending on where you live in South Korea and the current social climate. However, the awareness that the following issues may occur may allow you to better plan ahead and avoid stress: 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. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com