Gaecheonjeol National Foundation Day (Korea)

Gaecheonjeol National Foundation Day celebrates the myth of the founding of the state of Gojoseon, in Korea. Gaecheonjeol translates to ‘the day the sky opened’ or ‘the opening of heaven’ and is a celebrated holiday in North Korea and a public holiday in South Korea. The holiday has traditionally been regarded as the date for the founding of Korean people as it celebrates the formation of the first Korean state of Gojoseon in 2333 BC. The day is celebrated in an annual ceremony as well as by singing the National Foundation Day Song. This song was originally sung by people who believe in Daejongism, an ancient Korean religion. Today, the lyrics have been changed and are sung by all.