Have you been invited to a Korean housewarming party?
Here’s what you need to know before going to one!
Quick Summary
- Housewarming parties are called jipdeuri in Korean.
- Koreans throw separate housewarming parties for each group of family, friends, and coworkers.
- Make sure to bring a housewarming gift that is inexpensive and practical like TP, laundry detergent, or mini mood lamp.
When Do Koreans Throw a Housewarming Party?
After moving to a new place, Koreans invite family, relatives, friends, and coworkers over for a feast.
Koreans host several parties, inviting different groups each time.
We don’t like to mix people from different age groups and backgrounds because it might get awkward.
We even throw separate parties for different friend groups like high school, college, and social clubs.
Also, when a newlywed couple returns from their honeymoon, they host a housewarming party.
It’s a perfect opportunity to show off a new house/apartment to friends and family.
Is It Okay to Show Up Empty-Handed?
No! Even if they say bring nothing, don’t fall for it. Bringing a gift is a must.
A housewarming gift doesn’t have to be expensive though. A classic Korean housewarming gift is TP to wish that everything will roll smoothly in the new home.
Koreans like to receive a housewarming gift that is either extremely useful like TP, laundry detergent, or soap, or something they wouldn’t buy themselves, but would enjoy using such as a cute fire extinguisher, wine, wine glasses, spoon/chopstick set, mini mood lamp, or diffuser.
Whatever you choose, aim for something useful!
Get Ready to Take Off Your Shoes Indoors
As is customary in Korean culture, remember to remove your shoes upon entering the home.
It’s a good idea to wear socks or tights without holes.
When you see all the shoes near the entrance, place yours next to them.
When Korean hosts offer you house shoes that look like indoor slippers, feel free to wear them.
Expect a Tour of the New Home
Upon arrival, expect to be given a tour of the house.
Pay attention to unique decor and compliment the new space.
It’s a way to show your support and happiness for their achievement.
Look Forward to Lots of Food and Drinks
Koreans prepare a lot of food and feed you like it’s a holiday at housewarming parties.
While some hosts may order delivery food like pizza and fried chicken, it’s still common to cook a lot of hearty dishes like galbi-jjim (braised short ribs), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and more.
Don’t be shocked to see both Korean and Western dishes served together. As long as the table is full of food, it’s all good.
Depending on the group, Korean hosts will offer different drinks like soju, beer, wine, whiskey, or coffee/tea.
It’s All About Togetherness
Koreans also have a culture of giving “moving rice cakes (isa tteok)” as a way of greeting neighbors and warding off evil spirits by sharing red bean steamed rice cake (sirutteok). Sadly, this custom is disappearing.
The good news is that Koreans keep the housewarming party culture alive.
Jipdeuri is about cherishing a small community and relationships, more than the new home. You can expect a warm and welcoming experience.
Let me know your thoughts or questions about Korean housewarming parties and gifts!
