How to Propose in the Traditional Korean Way

It's traditional to get the approval of both families before proposing.

A Korean marriage proposal involves more than just the two people in the relationship; it also incorporates the couple's families. The family is there not only during celebrations, but to help with the decision-making. Before proposing, you must have the union approved by both your intended's family and your family. It's important when deciding to propose that you do it properly to avoid offending your family, your future spouse or your future in-laws.

Instructions

1. Introduce your potential fiancée to your parents. Your parents need to approve of the union and give their blessing. If they approve, they'll speak to her family to discuss a wedding date. In traditional Korean proposals and weddings, the wedding date is usually decided before the proposal even occurs.

2. Ask her parents for their daughter's hand in marriage. For very traditional Korean families, you'll have to bow very deeply on your knees with your head to the ground. This signifies respect for her parents.

3. Hold a dinner where the families will meet. This usually takes place in a banquet hall. There is an exchange of gifts between the families. This process is known as the "napp'ae." It signifies the acceptance by both families of the couple's union, and each family's acceptance of the other.

References

• Korea Orbit: Wedding in Korea
• Life in Korea: Before the Ceremony
• Korea JoonAng Daily: When The Pressure Is On, Men Pop The Question; Sung So-young, Oct 2010