[Korean Culture] Funerals(장례식) in Korea

Funerals in Korea

• 장례식(장) funeral (hall)
• 빈소 funeral parlor
• 고인 deceased, the dead person
• 영정 picture of the deceased

• How to express condolences to the grieving family:
  삼가 고인의 명복을 빕니다. (literally) I pray for the deceased to rest in peace.
• 조문객 condoler, mourner
• 조문하다 to offer condolences
• 조의금/부의금을 내다 to pay condolence money

When you enter the funeral parlor, write your name in the guest book and pay condolence money. Place flowers or burn incense in front of the photo of the deceased (turn it off by gently shaking it, not by blowing). Bow, pray, or have a moment of silence, depending on your religion. If you choose to bow to the deceased, perform a deep bow twice and then follow it with a slight bow of your head.

• 상주 Chief Mourner, the representative of the family of the deceased
• 상을 당하다 to be bereaved, to lose a family member
• 상복을 입다 to wear a mourning clothes

If you bowed to the deceased, bow to the bereaved family (상주). After that, you can greet them by slightly bowing your head or offering a hug. Avoid shaking hands as it is not customary in this situation. Remember to bow only once to the family of the deceased.

After the visitation, it is common to be offered food in the funeral hall. Eating the food there is considered respectful, so if you have the time, have the meal there.

How to to express condolences at a Korean funeral

1. Signing guestbook and giving condolence money
2. Incense burning or putting up flowers
3. Bowing to/praying for the deceased
4. Condolences to the family of the deceased

Funeral attire and things to be mindful of

When attending a funeral, it is customary to wear black clothes. If you don’t have black attire, opt for something dark. While formal clothing is not strictly required, it is important to dress conservatively.

• Additionally, remember to wear black socks as shoes are usually removed before entering the funeral venue.

Here are some things that are generally considered inappropriate or discouraged at a funeral:

1. Talking or laughing loudly
2. Shaking hands with the grieving family: it is more appropriate to express condolences through a gentle touch, a hug (if appropriate), or simple words of sympathy
3. Clinking glasses
4. Asking the reason for the death