REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of October 9, 2026 as Hangul Day and October 3, 2026 as Korean National Foundation Day
Report
BACKGROUND
Hangul, the Korean alphabet, was created in the 15th century under the leadership of King Sejong the Great to provide the Korean people with a writing system that was simple and accessible. In 1446, King Sejong published the Hunminjeongeum, which introduced the new alphabet and explained its purpose and use. The writing system later became known as Hangul and remains the official writing system of both South and North Korea. October 9 is recognized as Hangul Day in commemoration of the alphabet’s creation and publication. In 2019, the California State Assembly recognized October 9, 2019, and each October 9 thereafter, as Hangul Day in California.
Korean National Foundation Day, known as Gaecheonjeol, or “Heaven Opening Day,” is observed annually on October 3 and commemorates the legendary founding of Gojoseon, traditionally regarded as the first Korean kingdom, by Dangun Wanggeom in 2333 BCE. The tradition is rooted in Korea’s foundational mythology, as recorded in the 13th-century Samguk Yusa, and symbolizes the origins of Korean civilization and national identity. October 3 was designated as a national observance in the early 20th century and was formally established as a public holiday by the South Korean government in 1949.
Together, Hangul Day and Korean National Foundation Day recognize significant milestones in Korean history and culture and provide an opportunity to celebrate Korea’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage and the traditions that continue to connect Korean communities across generations.
DISCUSSION
At the October 20, 2026, City Council meeting, the City of Santa Clara will proclaim October 9 as Hangul Day and October 3 as Korean National Foundation Day. These observances recognize significant milestones in Korean history and culture and celebrate the enduring contributions of Korean heritage, language, and traditions.
Through this recognition, the City joins communities throughout California in honoring the Korean American community and acknowledging its contributions to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Santa Clara and the greater region. The proclamations also provide an opportunity to promote greater understanding and appreciation of Korean history and culture while celebrating the diversity that strengthens and enriches the Santa Clara community.
Representatives from the Korean Language and Cultural Foundation (KLACF) in Santa Clara, Dr. Eun Hee Koo, the Korean Consulate in San Francisco and Consul General Jung Taek Lim will be present to receive the proclamations.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an informational report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact other than staff time for preparing this report.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimée Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jōvan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of October 9, 2026 as Hangul Day
2. Proclamation of October 3, 2026 as Korean National Foundation Day