Korean Funeral Culture: A Sacred Time Blending Tradition and Modernity

Welcome to this blog! Today, we're delving into a deeply meaningful aspect of life's final journey: 'Korean Funeral Culture'. A Korean funeral is more than just a farewell; it's a vital period for the living to mourn and remember the deceased, cherishing their memory. Rooted in profound history, filial piety, and influenced by modern societal changes, what does Korean funeral culture truly entail?

The Deep Meaning of Korean Funerals Rooted in Tradition

Historically, our ancestors embraced life and death as natural cycles while placing immense importance on respect and filial piety towards the deceased. During periods heavily influenced by Confucianism, funeral procedures were complex and solemn, with extended periods of mourning and wearing traditional funeral attire. This reflected a collective sharing of grief within the community and a sincere wish for the peaceful repose of the departed soul. These deep traditions continue to permeate modern Korean funeral services.

The Foundation of Modern Korean Funerals: The 'Three-Day Funeral' and Its Procedures

Today, the 'three-day funeral,' spanning three days, is the most common funeral procedure in Korea. However, depending on religious beliefs or personal circumstances, two-day or five-day funerals can also occur.

1. Day 1: Passing and Preparing the Mortuary

   • When a person passes away, family members are present at the final moments, and the body is transported to the funeral home.
   • The family collaborates to prepare the mortuary, placing the portrait of the deceased, and setting up an altar or incense burning area according to religious practices.
   • A chief mourner (喪主, sangju) is designated, and relatives are notified of the passing.

2. Day 2: Condolences (Jomun)

   • This is the main day for visitors (jomungaek) to express their condolences, grieve with the family, and comfort the bereaved.
   • Visitors typically wear simple funeral attire (black or dark clothing) and pay their respects to the deceased before offering words of comfort to the chief mourner.
   • Observing proper condolence etiquette is crucial. Avoid excessive laughter or loud remarks, and maintain a solemn attitude. Generally, it's customary to bow twice to the deceased and once to the chief mourner.

3. Day 3: Funeral Procession and Committal

   • The ' 발인 (balin)' ceremony, the final farewell to the deceased, takes place.
   • A funeral service or wake is held to commemorate the life of the deceased, and family and mourners participate in the procession of the coffin.
   • The remains are then transported to a crematorium for cremation or to a burial site (family plot, ossuary, etc.) for committal. Recently, cremation has become more common due to hygiene and space considerations.

Societal Changes and the Role of Funeral Service Companies

In our busy modern society, it can be challenging for families to manage all funeral procedures themselves. This is where Korean funeral service companies become invaluable. These companies professionally handle the entire funeral process, allowing the bereaved family to focus more on their final moments with the deceased. Funeral directors meticulously guide the procedures from preparation to committal, ensuring a more respectful and seamless process.

Furthermore, beyond traditional Korean funeral methods, an increasing number of customized funeral services are available, accommodating various religious observances (e.g., Christian, Buddhist) and individual beliefs. This demonstrates how modern funeral practices maintain the essence of honoring the deceased while flexibly adapting to the times and cultural trends.

The Enduring Value of Honoring the Deceased

While times may change, the fundamental values in Korean funeral culture—respect and love for the deceased, and the warm community spirit where remaining family and friends comfort each other in grief—remain constant. I hope this exploration of Korea's unique and solemn honoring the deceased culture provides you with meaningful insights.