2026 Korea Travel Guide: Best Dates to Visit & When to Be Cautious (Muslim Tips)

Planning a trip to South Korea in 2026? Choosing the right dates can make the difference between a smooth, enjoyable holiday and a stressful, overcrowded trip. From major Korean national holidays to iconic festivals and cultural events, this guide breaks down exactly when to go, when to be cautious, and what to expect. Whether you’re exploring Seoul’s vibrant streets, enjoying Busan’s coastline, or discovering Korea’s rich cultural traditions, this guide helps you plan with confidence.

And if you want expert help avoiding holiday chaos and making your trip truly Muslim‑friendly, don’t forget — contact KoreHalal Trip, a Korea travel platform and agency specializing in Muslim traveler needs.

2026 Korean Public Holidays & Long Weekends (Official Dates)

In 2026, South Korea has numerous public holidays — including some that create extended holiday periods or long weekends. These can impact crowds, transport availability, prices, and restaurant operations for travelers.

Here are the key official public holidays and extended breaks in Korea for 2026:

Why These Dates Matter for Travelers

These holidays often mean:

• Public transport (KTX, buses) are fully booked months in advance

• Restaurant closures or limited hours

• Busy tourist attractions

• Higher hotel and flight prices

Planning around these dates — or using an expert to help you navigate them — can make your Korea trip much smoother.

Key Holidays & How they affect your trip

Below, we break down the most important holidays and how they affect travel in Korea.

New Year’s Day – Jan 1 (Thu)

Although Koreans also celebrate the lunar New Year, January 1 is observed as a public holiday. Most people rest or head outdoors to watch the first sunrise of the year. Tourist attractions are open, but expect crowds at scenic viewpoints.

Impact on Travel:

• Traffic Congestion (East side): Many Koreans travel to the east coast to watch the first sunrise of the year, especially in Busan and the East Sea.

• Closures: Some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops may be closed during this period.

Travel Tips:

• Korea is one of the countries in the world where the sun rises the earliest. If you want to witness the very first sunrise of the New Year, watch the sun rise over the East Sea and make your wishes for the year ahead.

Seollal (Lunar New Year) – Feb 14–18

Seollal is one of the biggest traditional holidays in Korea. It’s a time for family reunions, ancestral rites, and traditional games. Millions of Koreans travel between cities, especially between Seoul and rural hometowns.

Impact on Travel:

• Traffic Congestion: Due to the large number of people traveling to visit their families, roads can become extremely congested. In particular, expect severe traffic jams on the highways.

• Transportation: Tickets for the KTX (high-speed rail), buses, and other public transport are likely to be sold out.

• Crowds: Certain travel destinations may become very crowded with groups of families, couples, and friends.

• Closures: Some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops may be closed during this period.

• Airport Congestion: As many Koreans also take this time to travel abroad, airports can become very busy. Be prepared for long wait times and queues.

Travel Tips:

• Book intercity transport as early as possible, or stay within one city (especially Seoul).

• Plan meals ahead and save nearby halal-friendly or reliable dining options.

• Visit palaces or cultural villages for a more meaningful experience.

Children’s Day – May 5

Children’s Day is a beloved family holiday in Korea. Parks, zoos, and theme parks become extremely crowded as families take their children out to celebrate.

In 2026, May 5th falls on a Tuesday, which means many parents and families are likely to take advantage of the long weekend, stretching from Saturday, May 2nd to Tuesday, May 5th. As a result, popular tourist attractions, amusement parks, and family-friendly destinations may be very crowded during this extended holiday period.

Impact on Travel:

• Crowds: Popular travel destinations can become very crowded, especially those frequented by children, such as amusement parks.

Travel Tips:

• If you’re visiting amusement parks or kid‑friendly spots, expect large crowds and long queues. You might want to visit there after May 5th or before May 2nd.

Buddha’s Birthday – May 23–25

This public holiday marks Buddha’s Birthday. While not everyone in Korea is Buddhist, the holiday is widely observed. Temples hold colorful lantern displays and ceremonies.

Impact on Travel:

• Crowded Temple: Although this period is not considered peak season, temples can be very crowded. On Buddha’s Birthday, temples usually hold special events.

Travel Tips:

• Great for cultural exploration, but expect crowding at temple sites and central Seoul areas.

Local Elections – Jun 3

As a national holiday, election day aims to allow every citizen to vote. You may see campaign banners and outdoor booths.

Impact on Travel:

• Public facility closures: During this period, many public facilities may be closed. In particular, some public facilities such as libraries may be used as polling stations, which can make them unavailable for regular use.

• Closures: Minimal — but some local shops may close for voting.

Liberation Day – Aug 15–17

This commemorates Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule. It’s celebrated nationwide, often with performances and parades.

Impact on Travel:

• Accommodation: As this is one of the peak seasons, accommodations may be fully booked well in advance, and prices can surge to several times the usual rate.

• Crowds: Certain travel destinations may become very crowded with groups of families, couples, and friends.

• Closures: Some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops may be closed during this period.

• Airport Congestion: As many Koreans also take this time to travel abroad, airports can become very busy. Be prepared for long wait times and queues.

Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) – Sep 24–26

Just like Seollal, Chuseok is a massive traditional holiday. Families gather to celebrate harvests and ancestors.

Impact on Travel:

• Traffic Congestion: Due to the large number of people traveling to visit their families, roads can become extremely congested. In particular, expect severe traffic jams on the highways.

• Transportation: Tickets for the KTX (high-speed rail), buses, and other public transport are likely to be sold out.

• Crowds: Certain travel destinations may become very crowded with groups of families, couples, and friends.

• Closures: Some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops may be closed during this period.

• Airport Congestion: As many Koreans also take this time to travel abroad, airports can become very busy. Be prepared for long wait times and queues.

Travel Tips:

• Book intercity transport as early as possible, or stay within one city (especially Seoul).

• Plan meals ahead and save nearby halal-friendly or reliable dining options.

• Visit palaces or cultural villages for a more meaningful experience.

Christmas Weekend – Dec 25–27

Although Christmas is not a major family holiday in Korea, it is still widely recognized as an important holiday by many Koreans. People often spend romantic time with their partners or travel with their families, and it is especially a period with a high volume of travel.

Impact on Travel:

• Accommodation: As this is one of the peak seasons, accommodations may be fully booked well in advance, and prices can surge to several times the usual rate.

• Crowds: Certain travel destinations may become very crowded with groups of families, couples, and friends.

• Closures: Some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops may be closed during this period.

• Airport Congestion: As many Koreans also take this time to travel abroad, airports can become very busy. Be prepared for long wait times and queues.

Travel Tips:

• Book early: Secure flights, accommodations, and popular activities as early as possible to avoid high prices and limited availability.

• Confirm operating hours: Double-check the opening days and hours of attractions and restaurants in advance.

Other Major Events & Festivals (Crowd Warnings + Travel Tips)

Certain festivals are not public holidays but significantly impact travel patterns:

Seoul International Fireworks Festival (Late September to early October)

One of Seoul’s most anticipated cultural shows — full fireworks over the Han River draw massive crowds near Yeouido Park. Travel and hotel congestion spike.

Impact on Travel:

• Traffic Congestion & Crowded Area:
  Large crowds gather to watch the Seoul Fireworks Festival, which can lead to severe congestion on subways, buses, and other forms of public transportation. In some areas, heavy crowds may make it difficult to move around. This is especially noticeable around the Han River, where the fireworks take place. Areas to be particularly cautious of include Yeouido Hangang Park, Mapo Hangang Park, Ichon Hangang Park, Banpo Hangang Park, Nodeul Island, Yeouinaru Station, Yeouido Station, Mapo Station, and Hapjeong Station.

• Post-Event Traffic Congestion:
  After the festival ends, massive crowds heading home can cause nearby subway lines and bus services to become extremely congested or temporarily paralyzed.

• Accommodation: As this is one of the peak seasons in the Seoul area, accommodations may be fully booked well in advance, and prices can surge to several times the usual rate. This is especially true for hotels with Han River views.

Travel Tips:

• As the Seoul Fireworks Festival is a world-class event, watching the fireworks during this period can be a great experience.

• However, if you are not interested in fireworks, it may be a better option to visit other areas of Seoul or travel to nearby suburban regions during this time. While the fireworks are taking place, parts of Seoul can be noisy and brightly lit due to the explosions, and after the event, there may be temporary air quality issues caused by fireworks residue.

Busan International Film Festival (BIFF, Mid to late September)

Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is globally famous and important Film Festival usually in late September. Many Celebrities and Master filmmaker comes to busan to attend this festival. It often overlaps with Chuseok or subway patterns of busy downtown transport.

Impact on Travel:

• Traffic Congestion: Traffic congestion is expected in the Centum area of Busan. In particular, traffic control will be implemented around the Busan Cinema Center (BCC), the main venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).

• Accommodation: During the festival period, accommodation rates in the Centum area and Haeundae tend to increase. In particular, luxury hotels may have very limited availability, as many rooms are reserved for film festival participants.

Travel Tips:

• Visiting Busan during the film festival period can be a unique and exciting experience. At the opening ceremony, you may see world-renowned filmmakers, international celebrities, as well as popular Korean actors and K-pop idols. In particular, it’s not uncommon to spot them unexpectedly at restaurants around the Haeundae area.

• If you plan to attend the fireworks festival, be aware that tickets sell out very quickly. It is highly recommended to check the details in advance and secure your tickets early.

Busan International Fireworks Festival (Late October to mid-November)

The Busan Fireworks Festival is one of the two largest fireworks festivals in South Korea, alongside the Seoul International Fireworks Festival, and is also internationally renowned. In particular, the fireworks shows held along the beaches of Gwangalli and Haeundae offer a spectacular and emotionally powerful experience that is rarely seen at other fireworks festivals.

As this festival is extremely popular among Koreans as well, travelers visiting Busan during this period should carefully consider the following points:**

Impact on Travel:

• Traffic Congestion & Crowded Area:
  Large crowds gather to watch the Busan International Fireworks Festival, which can lead to severe congestion on subways, buses, and other forms of public transportation. In some areas, heavy crowds may make it difficult to move around. This is especially noticeable around the Gwangalli Beach Haeundae area, where the fireworks take place.

• Post-Event Traffic Congestion:
  After the festival ends, massive crowds heading home can cause nearby subway lines and bus services to become extremely congested or temporarily paralyzed.

• Accommodation: As this is one of the peak seasons in the Busan area, accommodations are usually fully booked in advance, and prices can be significantly higher than usual. This is especially true for hotels with Ocean views.

Travel Tips:

• As the Busan International Fireworks Festival is a world-class event, watching the fireworks during this period can be a great experience.

• However, if you are not interested in fireworks, you may want to avoid visiting Busan during the fireworks festival if you prefer quieter travel. While the fireworks are taking place, parts of Busan can be noisy and brightly lit due to the explosions, and after the event, there may be temporary air quality issues caused by fireworks residue.

🕌 Muslim Traveler Tips for Korea

South Korea is increasingly welcoming to Muslim travelers, with more halal‑certified restaurants, prayer facilities in major cities, and Muslim‑friendly travel support services available.

✔️ Halal Food & Prayer Spaces

• Find halal restaurants in Seoul (Itaewon), Busan, Jeju, and select cities.

• Major malls and tourist areas may offer prayer rooms.

• Carry a halal dining guide or app to identify options.

✔️ Cultural Respect & Etiquette

• Koreans are respectful but not all are familiar with Muslim practices — be patient and polite when you ask for prayer space or halal options.

✔️ Use Local Experts

Planning ahead with a Muslim‑friendly travel partner, like KoreHalal Trip, helps ensure:

• Avoiding peak holiday chaos

• Halal food locations and prayer guidance

• Customized itineraries for your interests

Final Travel Advice

If you want to travel to Korea in 2026 — and avoid troublesome holiday travel situations, fully booked transportation, restaurant closures, and festival crowd stress — then you should reach out to travel experts like KoreHalal Trip who specialize in Muslim‑friendly Korea planning.

✈️ KoreHalal Trip:
📱 Google Play & App Store

Let the professionals help you plan a stress‑free, meaningful Korea journey!

FAQ — Korea Travel Dates, Holidays & Muslim Tips

Q: When is the best time to avoid crowds in Korea?

A: Spring (April – early May) and early autumn (after Chuseok) usually have fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Q: Should I book trains and hotels early for holiday dates?

A: Yes — especially for Seollal and Chuseok. Reservations are often sold out months ahead.

Q: Are halal food options widely available in Korea?

A: Halal options are growing, especially in Seoul and Busan. Planning helps ensure you find them easily.

Q: Can I visit temples during Buddha’s Birthday?

A: Yes! Temples host beautiful lantern festivals, but expect exploration crowds.

Q: What should I do during Korean festivals affecting transport?

A: Consider local tours with experts or schedule activities outside peak holiday dates.

Q: When is the best time to travel to South Korea in 2026?

A: The best times to travel are spring (March–April) and autumn (October–early November), avoiding major public holidays and large festivals if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Q: Which dates should travelers be most cautious about in 2026?

A: Travelers should be especially cautious during:

• Seollal (Feb 14–18)

• Chuseok (Sep 24–27)

• Liberation Day weekend (Aug 15–17)

• Children’s Day long weekend (May 2–5)
  These periods often involve heavy traffic, sold-out transportation, closures, and higher prices.

Q: Is it a bad idea to travel during Seollal or Chuseok?

A: Not necessarily, but it requires planning.
Intercity transport sells out quickly, highways are congested, and some restaurants or attractions may close. Staying within one city (especially Seoul) and booking early can help.

Q: Do public holidays affect tourist attractions in Korea?

A: Yes. During major holidays:

• Some attractions, shops, and restaurants may close or operate on limited hours

• Popular attractions become very crowded
  Always check opening hours in advance.

Q: How does Children’s Day affect travel?

A: Children’s Day (May 5) is extremely busy at theme parks, zoos, and family attractions. In 2026, the extended weekend may cause heavy crowds from May 2–5.

Q: What should I expect during the Seoul International Fireworks Festival?

A: Expect:

• Severe crowding near the Han River (Yeouido, Mapo, Banpo)

• Heavy traffic before and after the event

• Higher hotel prices, especially Han River–view hotels
  It’s great if you enjoy fireworks, but inconvenient if you don’t.

Q: Is Busan crowded during the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)?

A: Yes. During BIFF (mid–late September):

• Traffic congestion is common in the Centum City area

• Traffic control is enforced near Busan Cinema Center (BCC)

• Luxury hotels in Haeundae and Centum often sell out due to film industry guests

Q: How busy is the Busan International Fireworks Festival?

A: It is one of Korea’s largest events. Expect:

• Massive crowds in Gwangalli and Haeundae

• Severe congestion after the fireworks end

• Hotels booked far in advance with much higher prices
  If you’re not interested in fireworks, consider visiting another city or area.

Q: Are flights and trains affected during holidays in Korea?

A: Yes. During major holidays:

• KTX and express buses sell out weeks or months in advance

• Airports are extremely crowded, especially before and after Seollal and Chuseok
  Early booking is essential.

Q: Is Korea Muslim-friendly for travelers?

A: Yes, increasingly so. Major cities offer:

• Halal-certified and halal-friendly restaurants

• Prayer rooms in airports, malls, and tourist areas

• Muslim-focused travel platforms and agencies

Q: How can Muslim travelers avoid holiday travel stress in Korea?

A: The best way is to:

• Avoid peak holiday dates

• Plan halal food and prayer locations in advance