It was founded by the Korean children's writer Pang Chong-hwan in 1923 as a way to instill in the children a sense of independence and national pride. It was designated as a national holiday in 1975.

Children's Day highlights the dignity of children and their need for love, care, and respect. It is also a day to honor adults that have contributed to improving the lives of children.

Children of all ages are celebrated during Children's Day and the entire community is involved in the festivity.

Many cities have parades and public activities and museums, zoos, amusement parks, and movie theaters offer free admission to children.

Traditional games, such as yut are played. Gifts are given to children from their parents and from stores that the children visit during Children's Day.

Tae kwon do demonstrations are often part of the Children's Day activities. Tae kwon do is a form of self defense that originated in Korea more than two thousand years ago. It involves more sharp, quick kicking than the Japanese style karate and is both a physical and mental discipline.