As the alternative holiday for Buddha's Birthday approaches, there is growing interest in the operation of essential services. While government offices, schools, and financial markets typically close, the status of banks, hospitals, and delivery services varies by institution and requires prior confirmation.
This year, Buddha's Birthday falls on Sunday, May 24. Since the holiday coincides with a Sunday, the following Monday, May 25, will be designated as an alternative holiday. This practice was established in 2023, when Buddha's Birthday was included in the list of holidays eligible for alternative holiday status alongside Christmas.
Government offices will be closed. As the alternative holiday is governed by the 'Regulations on Public Holidays for Government Offices,' central and local government agencies, as well as public institutions, will observe the day off. For any necessary administrative tasks, citizens can utilize online services such as Government24, or they should plan to visit in person after the next business day on the 26th.
Schools also typically observe the alternative holiday. Primary, middle, and high schools will close in accordance with the holiday schedule, but the availability of after-school programs and facility access may vary based on the policies of individual schools and education offices.
Employees should check with their workplaces regarding attendance. Businesses with five or more employees are required to provide paid leave for public holidays and alternative holidays. The Ministry of Employment and Labor has indicated that since January 1, 2022, this requirement also applies to private companies with between five and 30 employees. However, businesses with fewer than five employees may not be subject to this rule, so it is advisable to review employment contracts or workplace regulations.
The stock market will also be closed. May 25 is designated as a holiday for the domestic securities market due to Buddha's Birthday. No trading will occur for stocks, ETFs, ETNs, or ELWs, and investors should verify settlement dates and order times around the holiday.
Most bank branches are expected to be closed as well. It is common for alternative holidays to be excluded from financial institution operating days. However, mobile banking, online banking, and ATMs will remain available for use as on regular holidays. Some specialized locations, such as airports and currency exchange centers, may have different operating hours, so it is advisable to check before visiting.
The operation of hospitals and pharmacies will vary by institution. Many local clinics will be closed on public holidays, but emergency rooms will remain open. The availability of after-hours and holiday medical services, as well as open pharmacies, will differ by region, so it is recommended to call ahead. The Emergency Medical Portal E-Gen provides information on emergency rooms and after-hours medical facilities, while the Holiday Pharmacy Finder can help locate pharmacies that are open on holidays.
Delivery services will depend on the policies of individual companies. General delivery may be limited or delayed on the alternative holiday, but not all delivery services operate in the same manner. Early morning deliveries, same-day deliveries, convenience store deliveries, and those using in-house delivery networks may have different operational policies. If planning online orders around the holiday, it is advisable to check the delivery cutoff times and expected arrival dates with the retailer.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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