Gift-giving customs

In Korea a gift is a greeting that expresses a relationship. It needn't be expensive.

When gifts are given

• When invited to someone's home — fruit, drinks, desserts; even household items like tissues or detergent are fine.
• At Seollal and Chuseok — fruit sets, health foods, gift vouchers.
• Weddings and funerals — cash in an envelope.
• Housewarmings — tissues, detergent or a plant, traditionally.
• Births and first birthdays — baby items or cash.
• To say thank you — something light such as a coffee gift voucher works well.

Ceremonial envelopes

• Weddings — a white envelope with your name, handed in at the reception desk.
• Funerals — a white envelope. Offer condolences and remain quiet.
• The amount depends on closeness and your means. There is no fixed rule.
• Envelopes are sold at convenience stores and stationers.

Gifts better avoided

• Shoes — sometimes read as "you'll walk away".
• Knives and scissors — can suggest cutting the relationship.
• Handkerchiefs — said to evoke parting.
• The number four — sounds like the word for death, so often avoided.
• Anything too expensive — it becomes a burden. Be especially careful at work.

Questions people ask

Must I give my manager a gift? No. For public officials there are legal restrictions, so take particular care.

Do I have to reciprocate a gift? Not at the same value. A sincere thank you is often enough.

I can't attend a wedding — should I still send money? Close friends sometimes transfer it. If it's a stretch, a message of congratulation is fine.

Can I give something from my home country? Very much so. Tea, snacks or small crafts from home make memorable gifts.

Take care

Giving money or valuables to civil servants, teachers and medical staff is legally restricted. Express thanks in a letter or in words. At work, pressure to give gifts or excessive demands for ceremonial contributions may be improper — consult 1350.

Related

korean-etiquette · chuseok-seollal · holidays-korea · drinking-culture · age-honorifics

Source

Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, Danuri portal www.liveinkorea.kr / As of 2026-08