How Children's Day brings families together and how it challenges traditional views on the relationship between elders and children.

We all face a reality that, in a way, feels a bit dystopian: we grow older. No matter who we are, where we come from, or what we believe in, time changes us. One day, a 5-foot-tall kid who once innocently loved ice cream might look at an old yearbook, trying to remember the carefree days of childhood. But no matter where life takes us, we all carry a piece of our childhood with us. Children’s Day is a reminder of these values. The values of joy, innocence, and memories that last a lifetime. It’s a day to celebrate and form meaningful memories to kids, and also remember the child we once were.

A Quick Look at Children’s Day History

Children’s Day in Korea has a long history rooted in a movement that started with the idea of protecting kids and acknowledging their rights. Back in the early 1900s, there wasn’t much talk about “Children’s Day”. Let alone, childrens weren’t even treated properly or received fair educations. Some had to perform back-breaking labor from sunup to sundown, resting only once a while. Yet, things changed in 1921 when Bang Jeong Hwan of the Cheondoism Boys' Association started the movement. His goal was simple: raise awareness about children’s rights and get them involved in forming a better future, especially after the March 1st Independence Movement during the Japanese colonial period.

With the slogan "Let’s become brave and true children, always loving and helping each other," Bang Jeong Hwan launched the first boys' movement. Two years later, on May 1, 1923, Children’s Day was celebrated in Seoul, marking the start of the tradition.

After Korea gained independence in 1945, Children’s Day was still celebrated on May 1. But in 1961, it became official on May 5, thanks to the Child Welfare Act. By 1975, it was recognized as a public holiday. Then, in 2005, Children’s Week was introduced, from May 1-7, to focus on children’s rights and promote their well-being.

How Kids Celebrate Today

When Children’s Day rolls around, it’s not just about having a day off. Kids get to dive into some fun activities. From theme parks to museums, there are lots of chances to try out different roles. Whether it's being a doctor, police officer, or chef, these hands-on activities teach kids about different careers while giving them the space to imagine what it’s like.

Along with career exploration, there’s no shortage of creative activities. Kids can jump into pottery, painting, and even cooking. Some festivals let them try their hand at traditional Korean crafts like making hanboks or learning calligraphy. Schools also get involved by holding career days, where they bring in guest speakers to help kids think about what they might want to do when they grow up.

More Than Just a Day of Fun

Children’s Day isn’t just a celebration. It’s rather a chance for kids to learn new things, create memories, and build skills. It’s about giving them the freedom to imagine what their future could look like, just like the movement that started it all intended. It’s a reminder of the hope for future generations, and a day to celebrate not only the children who are growing up now but also the dreams they’ll carry forward.

Works Cited

Works Cited

오산시 블.. | 블로그. “5월 5일 어린이날 유래와 의미.” 네이버 블로그 | 오산시 블로그, 2021, m.blog.naver.com/osan_si/222327684747. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.

“어린이날의 역사와 의미를 알아보자.” 교육부 공식 블로그, 6 May 2020, if-blog.tistory.com/10392. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.

‌“어린이날 의미와 역사 | 홈런.” Home-Learn.co.kr, 2024, www.home-learn.co.kr/newsroom/news/A/2114. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.