Oct 09, 2023
Hangul Day 2023
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Hangul Day (한글날) — the only holiday in the world celebrating an alphabet! Korea’s Hangul helps increase literacy rates across the region. On this day in 1446, Hangul officially became the country’s writing system.
Before Hangul, Josun used Chinese characters which were complicated and required education to learn. To solve this issue, King Sejong created Hangul which by design is much simpler — the alphabet contains 24 letters, 14 consonants, and 10 vowels. Almost all Korean is written in Hangul to this day and Korea’s literacy rate is almost 100%, due in large part to this efficient writing system!
In 1945, South Korea’s government declared Hangul Day an official holiday. Today’s celebrations vary from town to town. Many Koreans visit the King Sejong Museum in Seoul while others might enjoy the day off by reflecting on their nation’s progress or spending time with loved ones.
Happy Hangul Day, Korea!
Early Doodle Drafts
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More