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Korean Wedding Guest Etiquette

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  1. How to write a congratulatory money envelope and customary amounts

    On the front of a congratulatory money envelope, write "chuk gyeolhon" ("congratulations on your marriage") or "chuk hwahon," and write your own name on the back; the amount is customarily given as an odd number, such as 50,000 or 100,000 won, depending on closeness to the bride and groom. If attending the meal on the wedding day, it's common to increase the amount somewhat to account for the cost of the meal.

  2. Wedding attire etiquette (avoiding white, etc.)

    A neat semi-formal outfit is generally suitable wedding guest attire, and proper etiquette calls for avoiding white-toned clothing that might overlap with the bride. It's also best to avoid overly flashy or revealing outfits, as well as an all-black suit reminiscent of funeral attire.

  3. The meaning of the pyebaek custom

    Pyebaek is a traditional ceremony in which the bride, after the wedding ceremony, formally greets her in-laws for the first time; it includes a custom in which the in-laws toss jujubes and chestnuts into the bride's skirt, wishing for many descendants. Today, it has become increasingly common to omit or simplify pyebaek.

  4. Wedding meal etiquette

    At the wedding reception, guests are seated at a designated table and dine alongside other guests from either the bride's or groom's side; proper etiquette calls for avoiding loud conversation or making a mess during the meal. At a buffet, not leaving excessive food waste is also basic manners.

  5. Congratulatory greeting etiquette

    It's best to offer the bride and groom a bright, brief greeting, such as "Congratulations on your wedding," and proper etiquette calls for avoiding potentially sensitive topics, such as difficulties during wedding preparations, age, or whether it's a remarriage.

  6. Recent changes in wedding culture (small weddings, etc.)

    In recent years, a variety of wedding cultures reflecting individual values have spread, such as small weddings that invite only close friends and family, and house weddings with minimal formality, and it has become increasingly common to omit or simplify traditional procedures such as yedan and yemul (gift exchanges between families).

What etiquette should wedding guests observe?

A wedding is one of the most special moments in the bride and groom's life, so as a guest, it's important to express your congratulations in a way that follows proper etiquette. Knowing basic etiquette β€” congratulatory money, attire, and greetings β€” allows you to offer a more meaningful celebration.

How should you prepare a wedding gift?

If you'd like to prepare a separate gift in addition to congratulatory money, take a look at our guide to Korean gift etiquette as well, which covers how to choose a gift appropriate to your relationship with the recipient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it acceptable to just give congratulatory money without attending the meal?

Yes, giving only congratulatory money without attending the meal is not considered improper; in this case, letting the reception desk know in advance whether you'll attend helps the bride and groom's side get a headcount.

Is it okay to bring children to a wedding?

It's fine, but be mindful of preventing children from being disruptive during the ceremony, and if needed, be considerate enough to briefly step out and quietly calm them down.