Day of the Sun is the most important national holiday in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), celebrated annually on April 15th, marking the birthday of the country’s founder, Kim Il Sung. The holiday holds a status comparable to Christmas in other cultures and is observed over the course of three days.

Preparations for the Day of the Sun begin more than a month in advance and include a wide variety of events such as exhibitions, fireworks, musical and dance performances, sports competitions, and seminars on the Juche ideology. A central part of the celebration is visiting sites associated with Kim Il Sung’s life, including his birthplace in Mangyongdae and the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where his body lies in state.

A major highlight of the holiday is the Kimilsungia Flower Festival, an exhibition dedicated to the purple orchid named after Kim Il Sung. The event showcases elaborate floral arrangements and draws many local and international visitors.

During this period, the April Spring Friendship Art Festival also takes place, featuring performances by artists from various countries, offering North Koreans a glimpse into global cultures.

The celebrations include the distribution of special foods and sweets for children. In the evening, youth dressed in traditional hanbok attire participate in folk dances in public squares. These festivities highlight the deep respect and admiration for Kim Il Sung, reflecting his lasting legacy in North Korean society.