LAURENT & MYOUNG

The ceremony begins with a formal declaration of the wedding. This marks the beginning of a meaningful occasion in which two people make their commitment to one another, with family and friends gathered as witnesses to their union.

A traditional Korean percussion ensemble opens the celebration with pungmul, lively music performed on traditional instruments, and binari, songs and blessings offered to wish good fortune.

Through music, rhythm, and celebration, we welcome the wedding ceremony and wish the couple happiness and blessings in their life together.

The groom enters the wedding courtyard accompanied by attendants carrying a ceremonial goose and lanterns.

This entrance recalls the traditional custom in which the groom travelled to the bride's family home to take part in the wedding ceremony.

In jeonanrye, the groom presents a ceremonial wooden goose to the bride's mother, seeking acceptance into the bride's family and pledging lifelong faithfulness to his future wife.

In Korean tradition, the wild goose symbolises harmony, order, and fidelity. The ritual expresses the groom's promise to cherish his partner and remain faithful throughout their life together.

The bride enters the wedding courtyard accompanied by an attendant carrying a lantern.

Having travelled different paths, the bride and groom now come together to take their places in the ceremony and prepare to make their vows as a married couple.

The mothers of the bride and groom light the blue and red candles at the wedding table.

In traditional Korean symbolism, blue represents yin and red represents yang, the complementary forces that bring balance and harmony to the world. The lighting of the candles symbolises the joining of two families and the hope that the couple will build a harmonious life together.

Before the central wedding rituals begin, the bride and groom wash their hands in clear water.

This act represents the purification of body and mind. It is a moment to gather their thoughts, prepare themselves for the ceremony, and approach their new life together with sincerity and respect.

In gyobaerye, the bride and groom bow to one another as they make their commitment to married life.

Unlike a gesture of respect directed only towards elders, these bows are exchanged between the two partners themselves. They express mutual respect, honour, and devotion.

Traditional Korean wedding rites also embody the principle that husband and wife should respect one another as equals, regardless of age or social status.

In seocheonjirye, the bride and groom make their vows before heaven and earth.

They raise their cups to heaven and then lower them towards the earth as they pledge to honour their union and uphold their commitments to one another.

This ritual expresses the sincerity with which they enter married life and the importance of keeping their promises.

In seobaewurye, the bride and groom make vows to each other as life partners.

They raise their cups and promise to fulfil their responsibilities as spouses with love and trust. Their cups are exchanged, symbolising their acceptance of these promises and their shared commitment to honour them throughout their lives.

The hapgeunrye ritual centres on a pair of cups made from a single gourd that has been divided into two halves.

The bride and groom drink from these matching cups, symbolising the union of two people who were once separate and are now joined in marriage.

Just as the two halves belong together, the couple promise to build a shared life through love and trust, while continuing to honour each other's individuality.

The bride and groom exchange wedding rings as a personal expression of their love and commitment.

The unbroken circle of a ring symbolises a promise without end. As they place rings on each other's fingers, they reaffirm their intention to stand beside one another and carry the promises of this day into their everyday lives.

The couple offer their heartfelt thanks to both sets of parents for the love and care they have given throughout their lives.

They also express their gratitude to all the family members and friends who have travelled near and far to celebrate this occasion and share in their happiness.

Your presence and blessings make this day even more meaningful, and we will carry your kindness with us as we begin our married life.

A joyful celebration follows the wedding ceremony, featuring traditional music and a festive performance.

The lion dance (saja-chum) is a traditional Korean folk dance. Performers wear a lion mask and move to the beat of drums and music. It is believed to drive away evil spirits and bring good fortune, which is why it is often performed at festive celebrations.

This is a time to share in the happiness of the newlyweds, enjoy the lively rhythms, and celebrate the beginning of their life together.

We invite you to join us in celebrating this special day.

The bride and groom now take their first steps forward as a married couple.

Having travelled different paths, they now begin walking one path together. They look forward to sharing the joys and challenges that lie ahead, supporting one another and carrying the promises made today into the years to come.

Please join us in celebrating and blessing their new journey with your warmest wishes and applause.