Traditional Korean Wedding – Wedding Customs of the Joseon Dynasty
Modern weddings in Korea are usually held in banquet halls with elegant dresses and elaborate ceremonies, but during the Joseon Dynasty, weddings were solemn events steeped in Confucian values, family honor, and symbolic rituals.
These traditional weddings were not just about the union of two people, but the joining of two families in a social and cultural alliance.
Each step in the wedding ceremony had deep meaning, and even today, we can still see remnants of these traditions in Korean weddings. Let’s take a closer look at how weddings were celebrated during the Joseon era.
| 1. The Beginning of a Traditional Wedding – What is Yukrye (Six Etiquettes)? |
Traditional Joseon-era weddings followed a formal process known as Yukrye, meaning "Six Etiquettes." These included six ceremonial steps that structured the entire marriage process, from the proposal to the final wedding night.
It started with Uihon (marriage proposal), followed by Napchae (formal engagement offer), and Nappae (sending of wedding gifts). Then came Cheonggiil (setting the wedding date), Chinyeong (the groom fetching the bride), and finally, the couple consummated the marriage as husband and wife.
Each of these stages was a crucial ritual that represented respect between families and adherence to Confucian values. It wasn’t just a formality—it reflected a family's honor and careful consideration in forming lifelong bonds.
| 2. Core Wedding Rituals – Chinyeong and Paebaek |
Two of the most significant moments in a traditional Korean wedding were Chinyeong and Paebaek. Chinyeong involved the groom personally traveling to the bride’s home to escort her to his household. Often, the groom would bring gifts, including a pair of wooden geese (symbolizing fidelity), and arrive in a grand procession.
Upon arrival at the groom’s home, the Paebaek ceremony would take place. This involved the bride offering deep bows to the groom’s parents, expressing respect and gratitude. In return, the in-laws would toss dates and chestnuts—symbols of fertility—into the bride’s apron.
These customs highlighted the merging of families, not just individuals, and reinforced the importance of filial piety and family honor in Korean society.
| 3. Bride and Groom Attire and Etiquette |
The wedding attire in the Joseon Dynasty was elegant and symbolic. The groom typically wore a blue robe (cheollik) and a ceremonial hat called ikseongwan. The bride wore a red wonsam (ceremonial robe), a flower crown (hwagwan), and traditional accessories like norigae. She also applied yeonji gonji (red dots) on her cheeks and forehead for good fortune.
Strict etiquette accompanied the attire. Brides were expected to remain quiet and respectful, especially around the groom’s family. Movements were slow, graceful, and controlled. All these behaviors reflected the deep-rooted Confucian norms of the time, emphasizing modesty and virtue.
This wasn't just about clothing—it was a rite of passage, transforming the individuals into responsible members of their new families.
| 4. Wedding Venue and Preparation Process |
Most traditional weddings took place at the bride’s family home, often in the front courtyard. A ceremonial altar (heonsudan) was prepared to honor ancestors, and the entire yard was cleaned and decorated for the event. Neighbors and extended family often gathered to witness the ceremony.
Weddings weren’t spontaneous events. Preparations took months, sometimes involving the entire household. The groom’s family prepared the dowry, gifts, and travel arrangements. The bride’s side arranged the ceremonial attire, feast preparations, and hosted the guests.
Because weddings were so important, some families would go into debt to hold a respectable ceremony. It was not just a celebration—it was a social statement.
| 5. Social Significance of Weddings in the Joseon Dynasty |
Marriage in the Joseon Dynasty wasn’t just about love—it was a serious social contract. Especially among the noble class (yangban), marriage often served political or economic purposes. Families used marriage to strengthen alliances, preserve class status, and secure social advancement.
Weddings also reinforced Confucian education. Through the process, the couple learned their roles—husband and wife, daughter-in-law and son-in-law—and began their journey into adulthood.
In this way, a wedding was not just a private affair, but a public rite that introduced a couple to the larger fabric of society.
| 6. Traces of Traditional Weddings in Modern Ceremonies |
Even today, traces of Joseon-era weddings remain in modern Korean weddings. The Paebaek ceremony is still commonly held after the main wedding ceremony. The use of yeonji gonji, traditional music, and Korean hanbok during photo shoots or small private weddings also reflect this heritage.
Recently, more couples are opting for fully traditional weddings in hanok (traditional Korean houses), celebrating their roots and cultural pride. These events often recreate historical rituals in authentic settings.
While times have changed, the value placed on family, respect, and tradition still lives on in these modern adaptations.
Q&A
Q1. Was divorce allowed during the Joseon Dynasty?
A1. Yes, but it was rare and heavily restricted, especially for women. Men could divorce for specific reasons defined under the “seven evils,” but women had very limited rights.
Q2. Did Joseon couples exchange vows like today?
A2. Not in the modern sense. Instead of verbal vows, their mutual bows and ceremonial actions symbolized the commitment and duties of marriage.
Q3. Can people experience traditional weddings today?
A3. Yes! Places like the Korean Folk Village and the National Folk Museum of Korea offer traditional wedding reenactments and cultural programs.
