Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal)
2026Tuesday, May 5
Quick Facts
- Date
- Tuesday, May 5, 2026
- Observed in
- South Korea
- Type
- National Holiday
What is Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal)?
Eorini-nal (어린이날), Korean Children's Day, is celebrated on May 5 every year. It is a public holiday in South Korea dedicated to celebrating children and promoting their happiness and welfare.
The name "Eorini" (어린이) means "children" and "nal" (날) means "day." The holiday emphasizes that children are not just small adults but unique individuals deserving of respect and protection.
May 5 kicks off Children's Week in South Korea, and many families take this opportunity to spend quality time together. Amusement parks, zoos, and children's attractions see their highest attendance of the year.
When is Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal) 2026?
Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal) is on Tuesday, May 5 in 2026. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
Korean Children's Day was first established on May 1, 1923 by writer and children's rights advocate Bang Jeong-hwan. It was one of the first Children's Days in the world, created during Japanese colonial rule.
Bang Jeong-hwan coined the Korean word "eorini" (어린이), which was revolutionary at the time. Before this, children were often referred to dismissively as "aigi" (아이). The new term elevated children's status in society.
The date was moved to May 5 in 1927 and has remained on this date since. The holiday became an official public holiday in 1975, giving all workers the day off to spend with their children.
During the colonial period (1910-1945), the holiday was banned by Japanese authorities who saw it as promoting Korean national identity. It was revived after Korea's liberation in 1945.
How It's Celebrated
Family Outings: Families visit amusement parks, zoos, museums, and children's parks. Major attractions like Everland and Lotte World offer special events.
Gift Giving: Parents give their children gifts, often toys, books, or clothing. Many stores offer Children's Day sales and promotions.
Special Meals: Families enjoy special meals together, often at children's favorite restaurants or with homemade treats.
School Events: In the days leading up to the holiday, schools hold special events, performances, and celebrations for students.
Wearing Hanbok: Some families dress their children in traditional Korean clothing (hanbok) for photos and celebrations.
Free Admission: Many cultural institutions, museums, and parks offer free admission for children on this day.
Where It's Observed
Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal) is a public holiday in 1 country. In 2026, it falls on Tuesday, May 5.
Fun Facts
- Korea was one of the first countries in the world to establish Children's Day in 1923
- The word 'eorini' (어린이) was created specifically for this holiday by Bang Jeong-hwan
- Amusement parks in Korea can see over 100,000 visitors on Children's Day
- If Children's Day falls on a weekend, the following Monday becomes a substitute holiday
- Bang Jeong-hwan also founded Korea's first children's magazine
- The holiday was banned during Japanese colonial rule but continued secretly
- South Korea spends more per capita on Children's Day gifts than most countries
- May is called 'Family Month' in Korea, with Parents' Day on May 8 and Teacher's Day on May 15
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Korean Children's Day?
Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal) is celebrated on May 5 every year. It is a public holiday in South Korea, and if it falls on a weekend, the following Monday becomes a substitute holiday.
Who created Korean Children's Day?
Korean Children's Day was created by Bang Jeong-hwan (방정환), a children's rights advocate and writer, in 1923. He also invented the Korean word 'eorini' (어린이) meaning 'children' to give children more respect and dignity.
How do Koreans celebrate Children's Day?
Koreans celebrate with family outings to amusement parks, zoos, and museums. Parents give gifts to their children, families enjoy special meals together, and many venues offer free admission for children.
Why was Korean Children's Day created?
It was created to recognize children as individuals deserving of respect and protection, not just small adults. Bang Jeong-hwan wanted to promote children's welfare and happiness during a time when children had few rights.
Is Korean Children's Day a public holiday?
Yes, Children's Day has been an official public holiday in South Korea since 1975. All workers get the day off to spend time with their children and families.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Korean Children's Day (Eorini-nal)? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
