When spring is in full bloom and the vibrant greens paint the landscape, South Korea welcomes the month of May. In South Korea, May is called the “Month of Family” (가정의 달, ga-jeong-ui dal), and it’s filled with days that honor relationships, love, and appreciation. From kids to elders, every generation is celebrated, making May one of the warmest months of the year, emotionally speaking!
Here are the important days that make May truly special:
어린이날 (Eo-rin-i nal) – Children’s Day
Celebrated on May 5, this national holiday is dedicated to making kids feel special. Families take children on outings, give gifts, and spend quality time together.
어버이날 (Eo-beo-i nal) – Parents’ Day
On May 8, children express their love and gratitude to their parents. A beautiful day to show gratitude to both mother and father. Kids often give 카네이션 (ka-ne-i-syeon) – carnations, which symbolizes love and respect.
스승의 날 (Seu-seung-ui nal) – Teacher’s Day
Observed on May 15, this day is dedicated to honoring teachers for their guidance and care, with gifts of cards, flowers, and heartfelt messages of gratitude. Students and alumni often send letters or small gifts to their teachers.
성년의 날 (seong-nyeon-ui nal) – Coming-of-Age Day
The third Monday of May is coming-of-age day. This day celebrates those who turn 19 this year and officially become adults in Korean society.
부부의 날 (bu-bu-ui nal) – Couple’s Day
On May 21, a lesser-known but meaningful day is observed to celebrate married couples. The date 21 (2 people becoming 1) symbolizes unity. It’s a reminder to cherish and communicate in a marriage.
How Koreans Celebrate These Days
During Family Month, schools often organize events where students perform and present ‘thank-you notes’ to their parents and teachers. Streets and homes are filled with flowers, especially carnations. TV programs and dramas also release touching episodes that highlight these themes, making the month even more emotional and meaningful.
Children’s Day is also a public holiday, which makes it a perfect time for family outings to amusement parks, zoos, and cultural spots.
Useful Vocabulary You Might Hear in May
가족 (ga-jok) – family
고마워요 (go-ma-wo-yo) – thank you
사랑해요 (sa-rang-hae-yo) – I love you
카네이션 (ka-ne-i-syeon) – carnation
감사 편지 (gam-sa pyeon-ji) – thank-you letter
가족의 달 (ga-jeong-ui dal) – the month of family
A Month to Feel and Express
May in Korea is a reminder to express love, respect, and appreciation openly. Whether you’re writing a thank-you note, gifting flowers, or learning new Korean words to say how you feel, Family Month is a beautiful opportunity to connect deeply with the people who matter most.
다음에 또 만나요! (Da-eum-ae tto man-na-yo) – See you next time!
Written by- Surabhi
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