Guide to Gaecheonjeol, Korea’s National Foundation Day

[Originally published October 3, 2021. Updated September 28, 2023.]

October 3 is Gaecheonjeol (개천절), or National Foundation Day in Korea. Gaecheonjeol literally means “the day on which the Heaven opens”, and is also known as Korea’s birthday.

This holiday celebrates the legendary formation of the first Korean state of Gojoseon in 2333 BC and this date has traditionally been regarded as the date of the founding of the Korean people.

Gaecheonjeol was designated as a national holiday in South Korea in 1909 and is currently a public holiday. The story of the founding of the Korean nation is based on the myth of Dangun in the Samguk Yusa (삼국유사 – Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms).

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The Dangun Myth

Hwanung (환웅), son of the Lord of Heaven, Hwanin (환인), wished to live on the earth to improve the welfare of mankind and descended from Heaven with 3,000 followers on Mount Taebaek on the Korean Peninsula in 2457 B.C. With the help of the gods of clouds, wind and rain, he improved many aspects of human life including agriculture, health, and the everyday welfare of people.

At that time, a tiger and a bear prayed to Hwanung to let them become human beings. Hwanung told them to keep themselves from the sunlight in a cave for 100 days and eat only mugwort and garlic during that period.  The tiger soon gave up and left the cave, but the bear persevered and was transformed into a woman.  Later, the bear-woman became Hwanung’s wife and gave birth to a son called Dangun Wanggeom (단군왕검).

Dangun later ascended to the throne, and in 2333 B.C., he founded the first Korean nation called Joseon, which means “morning calm”, an area covering Manchuria and the Korean Peninsula. It is referred today as Gojoseon (old Joseon) to distinguish it from the Joseon Dynasty established later in the 14th century.  

Here is a video about the myth of Dangun:

Dangun is now regarded as the founder of the Korean nation and has become a symbol of national identity.  The Dangun myth gives the Koreans a sense of national identity as a distinct race descending from a common ancestor. 

Here are 9 ways Koreans celebrate Gaecheonjeol:

On National Foundation Day, ceremonies are held at the shrines of Dangun in various places in South Korea and there is usually an official ceremony held at the Sejong Center.

1. Ceremonial Activities: On Gaecheonjeol, there are often official ceremonies held across the country. The main event takes place at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul, where dignitaries, government officials, and the public gather to pay their respects to the legendary founding figure of Korea, Dangun, who is believed to have founded the nation over 4,000 years ago. The ceremony includes the offering of food and drinks at the altar and the playing of traditional music.

2. Visiting Ancestral Sites: Some Koreans take the opportunity to visit ancestral burial sites or temples on this day to honor their ancestors. This is a way of connecting with their roots and showing respect to their family’s heritage.

3. Wearing Hanbok: On special occasions like Gaecheonjeol, it’s common to see Koreans dressed in traditional clothing called “Hanbok.” Wearing Hanbok is a way of showing respect for traditional culture and heritage.

4. Traditional Games and Activities: In some regions, there may be traditional games and activities organized for the public. These can include activities like archery, tug-of-war, and wrestling, all of which have historical significance in Korea.

5. Traditional Food: Food is an integral part of Korean celebrations, and Gaecheonjeol is no exception. Families often prepare traditional dishes and share them with loved ones. 

6. Festivals and Parades: In larger cities and towns, there may be festivals and parades featuring traditional performances, music, and dance. These events are a way for the community to come together and celebrate their shared culture and history.

7. Patriotic Displays: In some areas, you may see patriotic displays, such as the national flag of South Korea (Taegeukgi), flying proudly. Parades often include displays of national pride, including Taegeukgi-themed decorations.

8. Reflection and Education: Gaecheonjeol is also a time for reflection on Korea’s history and cultural identity. Many schools and educational institutions take the opportunity to teach students about the founding myths and historical significance of the day.

9. Family Time: As with many holidays, Gaecheonjeol is an occasion for families to come together and spend quality time with one another. It’s a time for sharing stories, honoring traditions, and strengthening family bonds.