#09. Marriage Traditions in Korea

 

 

Korean marriage traditions have evolved over time, but many customs and practices remain an important part of modern Korean weddings. Here are some of the most notable traditions:

 

1. Matchmaking: Historically, parents would often arrange marriages for their children. While this practice has become less common in modern times, matchmaking still plays a role in some Korean weddings.

 

1. Engagement: In Korean tradition, the groom's family would give the bride's family a gift, such as money or jewelry, as a symbol of the engagement. This is often done in a formal ceremony with the two families present.

 

1. Pyebaek: Pyebaek is a traditional Korean wedding custom where the bride and groom pay respects to their parents by bowing and offering tea. The parents then give the couple a gift, often money or household items.

 

1. Traditional attire: In Korean weddings, the bride often wears a hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, while the groom may wear a hanbok or a suit.

 

1. Bowing ceremony: During the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom bow to their parents as a sign of respect and gratitude.

 

1. Drinking ceremony: After the ceremony, the couple may participate in a drinking ceremony known as "pae baek." In this ceremony, the bride and groom offer drinks to their parents, and the parents give their blessing to the newlyweds.

 

1. Wedding banquet: Korean weddings often feature a banquet or reception, where guests enjoy traditional Korean food and participate in games and other festivities.

 

These are just a few examples of the many traditions and customs that are a part of Korean weddings. While modern weddings may incorporate Western-style elements, many couples still embrace these traditional customs as a way to honor their culture and heritage.