Gwangbokjeol (광복절) — Korean Liberation Day — is celebrated every 15 August, a Saturday in 2026. The name means "the day the light returned." It marks one of the most important moments in modern Korean history. Here's why.
See the Korean Liberation Day holiday page or South Korea's holiday calendar.
Why is Korean Liberation Day on August 15?
It marks 15 August 1945, the day Japan surrendered at the end of World War II — ending 35 years of Japanese colonial rule over Korea (1910–1945). For Koreans, it was the moment of liberation, the "return of light" after decades of occupation.
Two anniversaries in one date
15 August carries a second meaning in South Korea: it's also the day the government of the Republic of Korea was officially established, on 15 August 1948, three years after liberation. So Gwangbokjeol honours both liberation (1945) and the founding of the republic (1948).
Observed across the Korean peninsula
Liberation from Japan is significant for both Koreas:
- In South Korea, it's Gwangbokjeol, a national public holiday.
- In North Korea, the day is also marked as a liberation anniversary.
It's one of the few dates with shared historical meaning on both sides of the peninsula.
How Gwangbokjeol is celebrated
- An official ceremony attended by the president and dignitaries.
- The national flag (Taegukgi) flown on homes and buildings.
- Singing of the Gwangbokjeol song, and free admission to many public sites.
- It is a public holiday in South Korea.
Quick answers
Why is Korean Liberation Day on August 15? It marks Japan's surrender on 15 August 1945, which ended 35 years of Japanese colonial rule over Korea.
What does Gwangbokjeol mean? "The day the light returned" — celebrating liberation after occupation.
Does August 15 have another meaning in Korea? Yes — the South Korean government was also founded on 15 August 1948.
When is Korean Liberation Day 2026? Saturday, 15 August 2026 — it is always 15 August.