An increasing number of couples in South Korea are seeking wedding spots that cost less than traditional indoor venues, reflecting the trend in favor of cost-effective wedding ceremonies.

The average price for renting a wedding hall in Seoul ranges from 2 to 3 million won, but when some other extra fees included, such as the payment for floral designs or guest gifts, the total cost can easily hit 10 million won.

“When I had my wedding last March, I remember I spent more than 5 million won only for the ceremony itself. It was not held at a peak season and it was not a luxurious hotel, but the cost was quite high,” said a 30-year old newlywed bride.

One of the frequently sought places for young couples is a wedding hall located in a university building.

“I chose my university (as a wedding venue) since it’s half the price of the other wedding halls,” said Jang Jun-kyu, a 29-year old dentist. He held his wedding ceremony at Hoam Faculty House in Seoul National University.

“My wife and I thought it was unnecessary to stretch our budget and rent a spacious hall just to ‘show-off.’ The money we saved was all spent to buy better home appliances,” he said.

Local administrations are stepping up to help young couples save wedding costs. Since this April, Seoul City Hall has been providing its event halls for engaged couples every Saturday at less than 1 million won. Seongbuk-gu district office offers its auditorium hall at no cost.

By Park Sui, Intern reporter
(suipark@heraldcorp.com)