Teachers’ Day is observed in South Korea every May 15. The holiday has its origins in a tradition started by a group of Red Cross youth who visited their sick ex-teachers in hospitals to offer support. Initially celebrated on May 26, the date was changed in 1965 to honor Sejong the Great, the fourth king of the Joseon dynasty, who promoted literature and created the written language of hangul. Although national ceremonies were halted between 1973 and 1982, they were later resumed. On this day, teachers typically have a day off, and students and former students visit them to show respect and present carnations, which are often considered gifts.