KOREA
Hyemin Lee illustration

(Stripes Korea)

In Korea, May is the Month of Family with many big celebrations dedicated to loved ones. Children’s Day on May 5 is a national holiday where many families plan outings and gifts for their kids. On May 8, Parents’ Day honors both parents together unlike in the U.S. where Mother’s and Father’s Days are separate. Parents are treated to carnations, letters, gifts and dinners by their children. May also includes other holidays like Labor Day on May 1 and Buddha’s Birthday, the date of which varies according to the lunar calendar. Teachers’ Day on May 15 honors educators, and Coming-of-Age Day, on the third Monday of May, celebrates those turning 19. With beautiful weather and blooming flowers, May is lively, festive and full of celebrations!

Gajok (Family in Korean characters)

Gajok (Family) (Hyemin Lee)

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