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Death Practices in South Korea

Like neighboring China and Japan, the culture of South Korea is rooted in Confucianism, and, even as it has become a sizable force in the global economy, ancient practices and […]

Like neighboring China and Japan, the culture of South Korea is rooted in Confucianism, and, even as it has become a sizable force in the global economy, ancient practices and belief systems still influence the country’s norms. The importance of elders, harmonious relationships, and respect for nature are a large part of the nation’s ethos, and ancestors are celebrated both on the anniversary of their death and on important holidays, such as Sŏllal (the Lunar New Year) and Chusŏk (the harvest moon festival, or “Korean Thanksgiving”). Traditionally, burial was the preferred form of final disposition among South Koreans. However, lack of cemetery space has dictated a shift towards cremation in recent years. 

Read more about the death practices of South Koreans below.