Did you notice your Monday classes or part-time Alba shifts are suddenly canceled? If you are an international student in Korea, you might be wondering why you just got blessed with a surprise 3-day weekend!

This Saturday, August 15th, is one of the most important national holidays in South Korea: National Liberation Day, or Gwangbokjeol (광복절).

But if the holiday is on a Saturday, why are we resting on Monday? Let’s dive into what this historical day means and the magical Korean rule that gives you Monday off! 👇

🇰🇷 1. What is Gwangbokjeol? (The Restoration of Light)

August 15th is a deeply emotional and significant day for Koreans. It commemorates August 15, 1945 the exact day Korea was finally liberated from 35 years of Japanese colonial rule at the end of World War II.

The word Gwangbok (광복) literally translates to "Restoration of Light." It is a beautiful and poetic way to describe a nation getting its freedom and identity back from the darkness.

If you walk outside this weekend, you will see the Korean flag (Taegeukgi) proudly flying outside apartment windows, along major streets, and on public buses!

🤔 2. Wait, If the Holiday is Saturday, Why Am I Off on Monday?

Welcome to one of the absolute best things about living and working in South Korea: the Substitute Holiday System (대체공휴일)! ✨

In the past, if a major red-letter holiday fell on a weekend, it was just bad luck—you lost your day off. But the Korean government realized people needed more rest! Now, by law, if major national holidays like Gwangbokjeol, Chuseok, or Seollal fall on a Saturday or Sunday, the government automatically designates the following Monday as an official public holiday.

So, because August 15th lands on this Saturday, Monday, August 17th becomes a legal day off! 💸

🗓️ 3. How to Spend Your Long Weekend in Seoul

Since you have an extra day of freedom, here is how you can make the most of it:

🏠 Enjoy the Long Weekend in Your Dream Room! 🛏️

Speaking of resting, there is nothing better than spending a 3-day weekend in a room you actually love. If you are currently stuck in a cramped dorm or dealing with a stressful landlord, it is time for an upgrade!

Momstay helps international students find the safest, coziest, and most foreigner-friendly housing in Seoul. We make sure you have the perfect sanctuary to relax in during all these amazing Korean holidays.

Enjoy your surprise long weekend, and let us handle your housing! 👉 [Find Your Cozy Seoul Room on Momstay Today! 🏡🔍]