Hangul Day is a national Korean commemorative day that celebrates the invention and proclamation of Hangul, the Korean alphabet, by the 15th-century Korean King Sejong the Great. It is observed on October 9 in South Korea and January 15th in North Korea. Hangul Day has been a national holiday in South Korea since 1970, except for the years 1990 to 2012 when the government maximized business days to expedite industrial growth. The day is dedicated to spreading information and use of Hangul, commemorating the achievements of King Sejong, and celebrating the Korean language and culture. On Hangul Day, people in Korea celebrate with enthusiasm and a wide range of activities, such as enjoying traditional food, visiting museums, or just staying home and resting.