May in Korea is a month of appreciation. Following Children's Day on May 5 and Parents' Day on May 8, Teachers' Day (스승의 날, Seuseung-ui nal) rounds out the season on May 15. This date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of King Sejong the Great, the 15th century monarch credited with creating Hangeul, the Korean alphabet. As a scholar and educator who dramatically increased literacy among his people, Sejong is considered by many to be the nation's greatest teacher, making him a natural symbol for the occasion.
The holiday traces back to 1963, when a group of Red Cross Youth members visited a sick teacher in the hospital, a gesture that gradually grew into a national tradition. Initially observed on May 8, the date was moved to avoid overlapping with Parents' Day and was officially recognized in 1965. It was suspended between 1973 and 1982 during a period of political repression before being reinstated in 1983.
Though schools remain open, the day is marked by genuine appreciation. Students present red carnations and handwritten letters, and former students often reach out to teachers who left a lasting impression. The Ministry of Education also holds a national ceremony each year to honor exemplary teachers.
Showing appreciation has become more nuanced since the implementation of the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, commonly known as the Kim Young ran Act, in 2016, which prohibits educators from accepting gifts worth more than 50,000 KRW. The law was introduced to prevent favoritism, and many schools now remind families not to prepare anything special. Carnations and handwritten letters remain the safest and most heartfelt options.
In a country where education shapes so much of daily life, Teachers' Day serves as a quiet but meaningful reminder of the people behind that journey.
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