Raksha Bandhan in South Korea
Date: 28 August 2026
Introduction
Raksha Bandhan in South Korea is celebrated by the Indian and Hindu communities to honour the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a rakhi (decorative sacred thread) on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of love, protection, and lifelong support, followed by prayers, family gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts. While it is not a national public holiday in South Korea, the festival is observed within temples, cultural associations, and Indian community groups.
History
Raksha Bandhan is an ancient Hindu festival observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shravana lunar month. The date for Raksha Bandhan in 2026 is Friday, 28 August, when sisters tie rakhi threads on their brothers’ wrists and brothers vow lifelong protection. This tradition is celebrated by Hindus around the world, including those living in South Korea.
Rituals
- Prepare a decorated puja plate (thali) with rakhi threads, roli (vermillion), rice (akshat), sweets, and a small diya or candle.
- Sisters perform aarti (ritual prayer) and tie the rakhi on their brothers’ wrists while praying for their protection and well‑being.
- Brothers give gifts, money, or tokens of affection in return and promise lifelong support and protection.
- Families share festive meals with traditional Indian dishes and Indian sweets like laddoo, barfi, and kheer.
- Temples and Indian cultural associations host community events, cultural programmes, and children’s activities celebrating sibling relationships.
Events
- Raksha Bandhan Rakhi Ceremony:
The main Raksha Bandhan festival celebration in South Korea with rakhi‑tying rituals, cultural events, family gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts among relatives and friends.28 August 2026 10:00 AM KST - 28 August 2026 8:00 PM KST
Major Cities
Seoul
Seoul’s Indian and Hindu community celebrates Raksha Bandhan with temple gatherings, rakhi ceremonies, family rituals, and cultural events organised by local Indian associations.
Busan
Busan hosts Rakhi celebrations with family gatherings, rakhi‑tying rituals, festive meals, and community cultural programmes reflecting Indian traditions.
Incheon
Incheon’s Indian diaspora celebrates Raksha Bandhan with family prayers, rakhi ceremonies, festive feasts, and shared cultural events.
Daegu
Daegu observes Raksha Bandhan with traditional rakhi rituals, family gatherings, festive meals, and community celebrations involving Indian cultural groups.
Daejeon
Daejeon’s Hindu community marks Rakhi with family rituals, gift exchanges, and cultural programmes that highlight the bond of sibling love.
Gwangju
Gwangju celebrates Raksha Bandhan with rakhi tying, festive meals, and shared prayers among families and cultural groups.
Ulsan
Ulsan’s Indian community celebrates Rakhi with traditional ceremonies, family gatherings, and community cultural events.
FAQ
When is Raksha Bandhan 2026 in South Korea?
Raksha Bandhan 2026 in South Korea will be celebrated on **Friday, 28 August 2026**, in line with the Hindu full‑moon (Shravana Purnima) festival date observed by Hindu communities around the world.
How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated in South Korea?
In South Korea, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with sisters tying rakhi threads on their brothers’ wrists, exchanging gifts, family gatherings with festive meals, prayers, and cultural events organised by Indian associations and temples.
Is Raksha Bandhan a public holiday in South Korea?
No, Raksha Bandhan is not an official public holiday in South Korea, and businesses and schools operate normally. It is celebrated culturally by Hindu and Indian communities across the country.