Seollal, Korea’s Lunar New Year, is one of the country’s most important traditional holidays and will be observed from February 16 to February 18, 2026, with Seollal falling on February 17. During this national public holiday, most offices, schools, and government institutions close as families gather to honor their ancestors and celebrate together. The holiday centers on ancestral rites (Charye), the traditional New Year’s bow (Sebae), and sharing symbolic foods such as tteokguk (rice cake soup), which represents gaining a year in age. For visitors, it is a meaningful time to experience authentic Korean culture, though advance travel planning is recommended due to high demand and temporary business closures.