The government has designated May 15 as a national day to commemorate the birthday of King Sejong. 

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said Tuesday that the government approved the change to the regulations on national holidays and commemorative days during a Cabinet meeting in the morning. 

King Sejong, the fourth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, was born May 15, 1397. 

The government said it was designating a separate commemorative day in addition to Hangeul Day, which celebrates the creation of the Korean alphabet, since King Sejong made achievements in various fields such as economics, social welfare, culture and defense.
 
The culture ministry and the Korea Heritage Service said the Sejong Cultural Awards will now take place May 15 instead of during the week of Hangeul Day.

The government will also hold various commemorative events on King Sejong’s birthday to recognize his legacy and his achievements.