South Korea’s August 15 national holiday celebrating liberation from Japanese rule is called Gwangbokjeol.
The Korean name means “bringing back the light,” referring to the restoration of Korea’s national sovereignty after Japan’s colonial rule ended on August 15, 1945. In South Korea, the date is officially known as the National Liberation Day of Korea.
Gwangbokjeol is one of South Korea’s national holidays. Ceremonies often feature the national flag, patriotic music, public performances, and official speeches. The date also coincides with Liberation Day in North Korea, although the two governments use different official names and political traditions.
Gwangbokjeol should not be confused with Sam-il Jeol, observed on March 1 to remember the 1919 March 1 Movement. Chuseok is a major harvest festival, while Hangul Day honors Korea’s alphabet and is observed on October 9 in South Korea.