Overview
Marriage is an important milestone in many people’s lives, and it’s no different in South Korea. However, the legal age for marriage in South Korea is different from other countries, and there are several rules and regulations that must be followed. This article will go over the minimum age for marriage in South Korea, the requirements for marriage, and other important information about getting married in South Korea.
Minimum Age
The minimum age for marriage in South Korea is 18 years old. However, if you’re between 16 and 18 years old, you can still get married with the consent of your parents or legal guardians. If you’re under 16 years old, you cannot get married under any circumstances.
Requirements for Marriage
To get married in South Korea, you need to meet certain requirements. First, you need to have a valid identification card, such as a passport or resident registration card. You also need to fill out a marriage application at your local district office or embassy. Additionally, you need to provide proof of your eligibility to marry, such as a certificate of single status or divorce decree if applicable.
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
Waiting Period
Once you’ve submitted your marriage application, there is a waiting period of 30 days before the marriage can take place. During this time, your application will be reviewed by the district office to ensure that all requirements have been met.
Foreigners Getting Married in South Korea
If you’re a foreigner getting married in South Korea, there are additional requirements that must be met. You’ll need to provide additional documentation such as a certificate of eligibility to marry and proof of your legal status in South Korea. Additionally, if you’re marrying a Korean citizen, you’ll need to obtain a family relationship visa.
Civil vs Religious Weddings
In South Korea, there are two types of weddings: civil and religious. Civil weddings are performed at the district office, while religious weddings are performed at a church or other religious institution. Regardless of which type of wedding you choose, you must still follow the same requirements and waiting period.
Same-Sex Marriage
Same-sex marriage is not currently legal in South Korea. However, there have been recent efforts to legalize it, and it’s possible that it may become legal in the future.
Marriage Customs and Traditions
In South Korea, there are several customs and traditions associated with weddings. For example, the groom traditionally gives a wild goose to the bride’s family as a symbol of his commitment. Additionally, during the wedding ceremony, the couple will bow to their parents as a sign of respect.
Divorce Rates in South Korea
Like many other countries, South Korea has a high divorce rate. In fact, according to recent statistics, the divorce rate in South Korea is over 40%. This is due in part to changing values and societal norms, as well as financial pressures and other factors.
Marriage Counseling Services
To help combat the high divorce rate, there are several marriage counseling services available in South Korea. These services provide couples with the tools and resources they need to build strong and healthy relationships.
Conclusion
Getting married in South Korea requires following certain rules and regulations, including a minimum age requirement of 18 years old. Whether you’re a Korean citizen or a foreigner, you’ll need to provide proof of your eligibility to marry and wait for a 30-day review period before your wedding can take place.
References
– “Marriage Requirements.” U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Korea, https://kr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/marriage-requirements/.
– “Marriage in Korea.” HiKorea, https://www.hikorea.go.kr/pt/InfoDetailR_kr.pt?categoryId=2&parentId=385&catSeq=401&showMenuId=375.
– “South Korea’s divorce rate jumps 8.1 pct in 2019.” Yonhap News Agency, 2 Mar. 2020, https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200302006200320.
At what age can a South Korean girl get married?
The median age for first marriages in South Korea has increased over the years, with females marrying at 31.08 years old and males at 33.35 years old in 2021. This data is based on statistics from 1990 to 2021.
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
Can a Korean first son marry a foreigner?
If your in-laws bring up your wedding during your first meeting, you may be taken aback. In Korea, many people are against their eldest son marrying someone from another country because they believe that they must marry a Korean to continue the family line.
For a long time, there was a law that prohibited marriage between individuals who shared the same surname and patrilineal ancestry. However, in 1997, South Korea’s Constitutional Court deemed the law unconstitutional and in 2005, the civil code was modified to only prohibit marriage between closely related individuals.
Is 10 year age gap OK for marriage in South Korea?
For some celebrity couples, age is just a number as they have found true love despite significant age gaps. In Korean culture, a 12-year age difference is particularly noteworthy as it involves a complete zodiac cycle between partners.
Traditionally in Korea, it is expected that the groom’s family will cover the expenses of the wedding, such as the venue and catering. The bride’s family may contribute by paying for her wedding dress and any other smaller costs.
What is the age gap for Koreans?
In Korea, your age is calculated differently than in other countries. Your Korean age is always one year older than your international age because it includes the time you spent in the womb before being born. Your Korean age changes on New Year’s Day, not on your actual birthday.
Wedding Industry in South Korea
The wedding industry in South Korea is a thriving business, with many couples spending a significant amount of money on their weddings. According to a recent survey, the average cost of a wedding in South Korea is around $26,000 USD. This includes expenses such as the wedding venue, attire, food, and photography.
Wedding Attire in South Korea
Traditional Korean wedding attire is called Hanbok, which is a colorful and elegant dress for women and a matching suit for men. However, modern couples often opt for Western-style wedding attire such as white dresses and tuxedos.
Wedding Photography in South Korea
Wedding photography is an important aspect of weddings in South Korea, with many couples hiring professional photographers to capture their special day. It’s common for couples to take pre-wedding photoshoots at various locations around the city, including parks and historical landmarks.
Wedding Gifts in South Korea
In South Korea, it’s customary for guests to give cash as a wedding gift instead of physical items. The amount of money given typically depends on the relationship between the guest and the couple.
Wedding Banquets in South Korea
Wedding banquets are an important part of weddings in South Korea, with many couples hosting elaborate receptions for their guests. Traditional Korean cuisine is often served, including dishes such as bulgogi (marinated beef) and kimchi (spicy pickled vegetables).
Conclusion
Overall, getting married in South Korea involves following certain rules and regulations, but there are also many customs and traditions associated with weddings in this country. From traditional Hanbok attire to lavish wedding banquets, couples have many options to make their special day unique and memorable.
