Are you celebrating Christmas in South Korea? We’ve gathered the complete guide for Korean Christmas traditions to help you out – including how they celebrate, gifting etiquette, and more.
To help you explore their Christmas traditions, this article is organized into:
Jump To a Section Below
Unique Christmas Traditions in Korea
- Romantic Focus: Unlike many Western countries where Christmas is primarily a family-oriented holiday, in South Korea, it often resembles Valentine’s Day. Couples frequently celebrate by dining out at restaurants or engaging in romantic activities like ice skating.
- Caroling: Christmas caroling is a cherished tradition, where church members visit older congregants to sing carols and share festive cheer.
- Potluck Style Christmas Dinner: Families often gather for potluck dinners where everyone brings a dish to share, emphasizing community and togetherness.
- Santa Claus Variations: Santa Claus is known as “Santa Haraboji” (Grandfather Santa) in Korea. He may be depicted wearing blue or green robes instead of the traditional red suit, reflecting local cultural influences.
- K-Pop Influence: The holiday season features K-pop groups performing Christmas-themed songs, which adds a modern twist to traditional celebrations.
How to Say “Merry Christmas” in Korean?
Extend Christmas wishes in Korean with the phrase, “메리 크리스마스”.
Do you need more variety of Christmas wishes? Here is our full article on Christmas Wishes in Korean.
Korean Christmas Gifting Etiquette
Understanding the nuances of gifting during this holiday can enhance relationships and show respect for Korean culture. Here are the essential do’s and don’ts of Christmas gifting etiquette in South Korea:
Do’s in Gifting
- Use Both Hands: Always present and receive gifts with both hands as a sign of respect. This gesture is particularly important when interacting with elders or those in higher social positions.
- Wrap Gifts Thoughtfully: Choose bright colors for wrapping paper, avoiding dark colors and red, which are associated with funerals. Wrapping should be neat and visually appealing.
- Include a Personal Note: Adding a simple letter with words of encouragement or well wishes can make the gift more meaningful.
- Be Mindful of Reciprocity: In Korean culture, it is expected that gifts will be reciprocated. If you give a gift, be prepared for a similar gesture from the recipient at a later time.
Don’ts in Gifting
- Don’t Expect Widespread Gift Exchange: Unlike Western traditions, Christmas gift-giving in South Korea is not as prevalent. It is mainly reserved for close friends or couples rather than family members.
- Avoid Certain Colors and Items: Do not use red ink for writing names or messages, as it symbolizes death. Similarly, avoid giving sets of four items or sharp objects like scissors, which can imply severing relationships.
- Don’t Open Gifts Immediately: Opening gifts right away can embarrass the giver. It’s best to wait until you are alone or unless specifically asked to open it right away.
- Refrain from Giving Expensive Gifts: High-value items can create an uncomfortable obligation for the recipient to match your generosity. Aim for gifts that are thoughtful yet modest in price.
- Avoid Gifting Food Items During Christmas: While food gifts are common during other holidays like Chuseok, they are less appropriate for Christmas, where personal items or experiences (like outings) may be preferred instead.
Christmas in the Theme Parks
South Korean theme parks, like Lotte World and Everland, are famous for their extravagant Christmas decorations and events. They feature light displays, festive parades, and performances, making them a popular destination for families and couples during the holiday season.
Christmas Eve Mass
For the Christian population, attending midnight mass is an important Christmas tradition. Churches are beautifully decorated with candles, and people gather for special prayers and hymns. Afterward, families often share a meal or gather for fellowship.
Charitable Giving and Volunteering
Christmas in South Korea is a time for giving back to the community. Many people participate in charity events, volunteering to serve food at shelters, donate gifts, or raise money for those in need. This spirit of charity is closely tied to the holiday’s religious roots, even in secular observances.
Conclusion
Celebrating Christmas in Korea goes beyond food and gifts. It’s a time to honor love, cherish family, and embrace timeless traditions. Christmas is imbued with cultural richness and meaningful celebrations. Have a happy holiday!
Sophie is an etiquette coach who has the rare ability to make the intricacies of etiquette approachable and fun. She travels around the world coaching families, individuals, corporates and independent schools. Sophie has honed her craft without losing her easy-going charm.