Korean Wedding Traditions, Customs & Rituals

Jeonanrye (Engagement):

The Jeonanrye is the traditional Korean engagement ceremony where the families of the bride and groom officially announce their intention to marry. During this ceremony, the couple exchanges wooden geese or ducks, which symbolise fidelity and love. The families also exchange gifts, such as traditional wedding ducks, for good fortune and blessings.

Pyebaek (Family-only Ritual):

Pyebaek is a private ceremony held after the wedding, typically at the groom’s house. It is a family-only ritual where the bride pays her respects to the groom’s family and receives blessings. During Pyebaek, the couple offers bowing and presents gifts, usually in the form of dates and chestnuts, which symbolise fertility and prosperity.

Hanbok (Traditional Attire):

Hanbok is the traditional Korean attire worn during weddings. The bride wears a jeogori (jacket) and a chima (skirt), adorned with vibrant colors and intricate embroidery. The groom wears a jeogori and baji (pants). The colours of the Hanbok represent different meanings, such as red for passion and blue for harmony. Modern couples often incorporate Hanbok into their weddings, either wearing it for the entire ceremony or during specific parts.

Wedding Ceremony:

Korean wedding ceremonies can take place in various settings, including wedding halls, traditional venues, or even outdoor locations. Here are some key elements of a Korean wedding ceremony:

• Paebaek: Paebaek is a traditional bowing ceremony where the newlyweds pay their respects to their parents and receive blessings. They bow deeply while kneeling in front of their parents, who then throw dates and chestnuts into a silk scarf held by the couple to symbolise fertility and prosperity.
• Pyeonji: Pyeonji is the ritual of drinking together as a couple. The couple sips a specialliquor called jungjong, made by blending rice wine and herbs. This act symbolises their unity and commitment to share both joys and sorrows in their married life.
• Wedding Vows: The couple exchanges vows and promises to love, cherish, and support each other. They express their commitment to building a harmonious and lifelong partnership.
• Yedan (Wedding Ducks): The wedding ducks, known as yedan, are placed on a table during the ceremony. These ducks represent fidelity, harmony, and marital bliss. The couple receives them as a gift and keeps them as a symbol of their love and commitment.
• Blessings and Well-wishes: Family members and guests offer blessings, well-wishes, and words of advice to the couple. They may also present gifts or envelopes containing money (as a gesture of goodwill) to the newlyweds.

Reception and Celebrations:

After the wedding ceremony, a reception follows where guests are invited to celebrate the union of the couple. The reception includes a meal, traditional music and dance performances, and speeches from family members and friends. Modern Korean weddings often incorporate Western elements, such as exchanging rings and cutting a wedding cake.

Wedding Ducks and Geese:

Wedding ducks and geese hold special significance in Korean culture. These wooden figurines are considered a symbol of fidelity, love, and harmony. They are often given as gifts during the engagement ceremony and displayed during the wedding ceremony as a representation of the couple’s commitment to a lifelong partnership.