What are the typical customs and rituals at a South Korean wedding?

Post ByAdequate Travel

Summary
Traditions are an important part of South Korean culture, and weddings are no exception. Whether you're a guest or a member of the family, there's a cultural expectation for how the wedding and related rituals should unfold. In this blog post, we'll explore the typical customs and rituals of a South Korean wedding. As you prepare for your journey, familiarize yourself with the specific entry requirements, including any necessary visas or documentation.

Typical Customs and Rituals at a South Korean Wedding:

1. Pye-baek: This ceremony is usually held in the bride's family home, where the couple pays respects to the groom's ancestors. The bride offers a deep bow, while the groom's parents throw dates and chestnuts, symbolizing the number of children they hope for.
2. Pyebaek: Following the pye-baek, a formal bowing ceremony takes place in front of the elders. The couple exchanges cups of wine with their parents, and the parents, in turn, offer marriage advice and blessings.
3. Wedding Attire: The bride traditionally wears a hanbok, a vibrant and colorful traditional Korean dress, while the groom wears a jeogori, a long-sleeved jacket, along with baggy pants called baji.
4. Traditional Wedding March: The wedding ceremony begins with a processional, where the bride and groom march side by side to traditional music. They are often led by a female entertainer called the 'Hunjang.'
5. San-san-kudo: This is a traditional ritual where the couple offers wine to each other in three cups. The cups are stacked in a specific order, and the couple must take sips from each cup as a symbol of their unity.
6. Wedding Vows: Similar to Western weddings, the couple exchanges vows and rings. They express their love and commitment to each other in front of their families and guests.
7. Bowing to Parents: The couple pays their respects to both sets of parents by bowing deeply. This signifies their gratitude and a promise to honor their families in the future.
8. Banquet and Toasts: After the ceremony, a grand banquet is held, where guests enjoy traditional Korean food and drinks. Toasts are made to the couple's happiness and future.
9. Korean Wedding Ducks: Wooden ducks are often given as wedding gifts to symbolize a happy marriage. The ducks usually come in pairs and represent fidelity and love between the couple.
10. Wedding Photoshoot: It is common for couples to have a professional photoshoot before or after the wedding ceremony. They often wear multiple outfits and visit various scenic locations to capture memorable moments.
11. Guest Favors: As a gesture of appreciation, the couple provides small trinkets or gifts called 'wedding favors' to their guests. These can include personalized items or traditional Korean souvenirs.
12. Bouquet Toss: Towards the end of the celebration, the bride tosses her bouquet to a group of unmarried female guests, similar to the Western tradition. It is believed that the person who catches the bouquet will be the next to marry.

Before embarking on your journey to south-korea, make sure to check the latest travel guidelines and entry requirements to ensure a smooth trip

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