North Korea is expected to observe a three-day Lunar New Year holiday this year, as it follows the national holiday for late leader Kim Jong-il's birthday. The Lunar New Year falls on Tuesday, right after the Monday birthday holiday. While shorter than South Korea's three-day holiday, it emphasizes traditional events to honor ancestors and past leaders.
North Korea is set to enjoy a longer Lunar New Year holiday this year. According to reports, the holiday falls on Tuesday, February 17, immediately after the national holiday for late leader Kim Jong-il's birthday on Monday, February 16. This creates a three-day break from Sunday through Tuesday.
Typically, North Korea's Lunar New Year is a one-day holiday, shorter than South Korea's three days. North Koreans generally follow the Western calendar for New Year celebrations, without the extravagance seen in the South. The socialist state once abandoned traditional holidays as feudal remnants but reinstated Lunar New Year and Chuseok in 1989 under Kim Jong-il's regime.
Today, the holiday serves to honor family ancestors, celebrate the achievements of founder Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, and reinforce loyalty to current leader Kim Jong-un. Residents visit the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang or statues nationwide to lay flowers.
Travel during the holiday is restricted, permitted only with approval, limiting trips to other regions or hometowns. Restaurants stay open and busy with diners. A photo from February 11, 2024, shows North Koreans paying respects at statues of the late leaders during a New Year's event.
