There is growing controversy online over whether the standard wedding gift money should be raised from 100,000 won to 150,000 won. As the costs of wedding venues and preparations have significantly increased, some argue that the traditional gift amount should also change. However, many netizens have responded that "gift money is not just a meal payment," leading to a heated debate.
The discussion began with a post on a recent online community, where the author noted that buffet prices at wedding venues and various wedding costs have been rising. They suggested that guests should contribute around 150,000 won as a standard gift, arguing that 100,000 won is insufficient given the expenses involved in hosting a wedding.
This claim quickly spread across multiple online communities and social media platforms. Given that wedding gift money is a topic many people have considered, reactions were swift and varied. While netizens acknowledged the reality of rising wedding costs, opinions diverged on whether it is appropriate to shift that financial burden onto guests.
Critics focused on the meaning of gift money. Some argued, "Gift money is given to celebrate a marriage, not to cover the cost of the meal at the venue." They pointed out that the expenses of preparing for a wedding should primarily be borne by the couple, and expecting guests to contribute a certain amount could be seen as passing the burden onto them.
Others emphasized that the scale of the wedding and the choice of venue are decisions made by the couple. Comments included, "It doesn’t make sense to choose an expensive venue and then ask guests to pay more," and "If you invite guests, you should prioritize hospitality." Many expressed concern that as the burden of gift money increases, attending weddings could become uncomfortable.
Particularly among working professionals and acquaintances, there were voices expressing concern about the financial strain. Netizens commented, "Having two or three weddings in a month is a significant burden," and "While I can give more than 150,000 won for close friends, it’s difficult for acquaintances to contribute that much." They noted that while salaries have not significantly increased, the expectation for gift money continues to rise.
On the other hand, some expressed understanding for the perspective of engaged couples. They argued that with the rising costs of wedding meals, 100,000 won is no longer a sufficient amount if guests are expected to eat. Some netizens stated, "If we are close, I can consider contributing around 150,000 won," and "As prices rise, it’s natural for the standard of gift money to change." They noted that if the meal cost is around 70,000 to 80,000 won, then 100,000 won might feel inadequate.
However, many who supported this view also expressed discomfort with the idea of a "basic 150,000 won" standard. While they could voluntarily give more for close relationships, they felt that establishing a social norm could create psychological pressure on guests. Online comments included, "It should be a matter of personal choice based on relationships," and "I can give 150,000 won, but if it feels like a demand, I will resist it." Many argued that rather than raising the standard, a culture of understanding each other's circumstances is needed.
It is true that the rising costs of weddings have increased the burden on engaged couples. Expenses for venue rental, meals, photography, wedding attire, and honeymoon plans have all risen, leading many preparing for weddings to feel that they are "much tighter than before." The question remains whether it is appropriate to address this burden through increased gift money from guests.
Netizens' reactions are divided at this point. Some believe that as prices rise, gift money must also increase to some extent, while others argue that the meaning of celebration should not be quantified in monetary terms. The debate continues, as gift money is intertwined with human relationships, social expectations, and economic pressures.
Some have suggested that the culture surrounding gift money itself needs to change. Suggestions include allowing guests to choose whether to eat and lowering the burden of gift money, promoting smaller weddings or family-centered ceremonies, and creating a system that is less burdensome for both hosts and guests. Concerns have been raised that weddings are becoming less about celebration and more about financial calculations.
Online discussions have also revealed a variety of opinions on specific gift money amounts. While some believe that for close friends or family, amounts over 200,000 won are acceptable, many feel that 50,000 to 100,000 won is sufficient for colleagues or acquaintances they haven’t seen in a while. There are also suggestions that the amount should vary based on attendance, with 100,000 won or more for those who attend and around 50,000 won for those who send their regards without attending.
This controversy is not merely about the difference between 100,000 won and 150,000 won. It highlights the burdens faced by those preparing for weddings in a high-cost environment, the financial pressures on guests, and the differing perceptions of the original meaning of gift money. As wedding costs rise, the culture surrounding weddings is also under pressure to change.
Ultimately, the consensus seems to be that there is no definitive answer regarding gift money. For close relationships, it is acceptable to give more according to one’s means, and if the burden is too great, it is better to express one’s feelings within reasonable limits. However, there are ongoing concerns that as the culture of setting a basic amount becomes stronger, the spirit of celebration may diminish while the burden increases.
The debate over the 150,000 won gift money standard is likely to continue online for the foreseeable future. While weddings are significant personal events, they also represent a social occasion that requires time and financial investment from invited guests. In a situation where both engaged couples and guests feel burdened, discussions surrounding gift money standards are likely to persist alongside changes in wedding culture.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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