33 Best Korean Gifts – Unique Korean Souvenirs for Friends and Family
While people may not expect souvenirs or gifts, I always want to take back a few items for my close friends and family. Items representing Korea that are relatively unique and that the receiver will like. While these criteria are pretty simple in theory, once it comes to crunch time, I often can’t think of any Korean gifts to take home! In this vein, I wanted to create this post today.
Whether you are looking for Korean gifts to take home from your vacation in Korea or if you looking for a gift for a Korean-loving friend or family member, this list has suggestions. I have included an online link for every item on the list. All of the items can be purchased physically in Korea also. The goods in the traditional section are most easily found in Insadong, while most other gifts can be found all over Korea.
Korea has a wide range of unique gifts, and there is bound to be something to please everyone. I wanted to list more ‘typical’ gift ideas that you’ve probably already seen online and a wide range of traditional options. With Korea’s strong culture, there are many historic items worth considering!
At the end of the article, there is also a section for online gifts. These gifts revolve around online services that don’t involve physical goods. I wanted to add this section because getting someone a physical present is not always possible. If you find yourself in this situation, check out this post’s final section!
With that being said, let me get straight into the list. Whether you are looking for Korean gifts to take home from your trip or are looking for a souvenir for someone who loves Korea, I hope that you can find some suggestions here.
Traditional Korean Gifts
These gifts represent many of the traditions and history of Korea. If you want something that represents Korea and its rich culture, these are the gifts and souvenirs to check out. Although some of the items are harder to find online (at least for authentic products) Etsy has a fantastic selection of traditional Korean gifts.
However, if you want genuine goods, the best place to get them is in Korea. I understand that this isn’t possible for everyone and I included online options too. With that being said, if you are in Korea and looking for some gifts to take home check the markets and cultural areas such as Insadong first. They will have the widest selection of traditional handmade (and not) Korean gifts.
1. Bojagi
Bojagi are Korean traditional cloths that are used for wrapping. They were very common during the Joseon Dynasty, and more recently they have become a recognised art form in the past few decades. While not common in daily life anymore, they are beautiful and a great traditional Korean gift idea.
Bojagi were often used for purposes such as covering food or carrying items. While they are now primarily used for decoration, they can definitely still be used functionally. If you know someone looking to add some colour to their life, this traditional art form makes for a great gift. Alternatively, if you plan to get another Korean gift for someone, why not wrap it in Bojagi? It’s stunning!
2. Korean Traditional Paintings & Calligraphy
If you know someone with an empty space on their wall, make sure to check out Korean traditional paintings – they are amazing! Many paintings (traditional Korean paintings are called ‘Minhwa’) feature important cultural elements of Korean society such as tigers, dragons, and cranes as well as local landmarks (including many mountains!).
Minhwa can be found both in colour and in monochrome. You will also be able to find contemporary designs that mix in more modern elements. If you are looking for a gift for an art-lover, Minhwa paintings are a great idea.
If the person you are buying for would prefer something more simple or more personalised, then calligraphy is also an option. Hangul calligraphy is exquisite and can add to any room’s aesthetic. Even better, you can get a name, phrase, or particular word printed making it a truly unique Korean gift.
3. Hanbok
If you are interested in Korean culture, or even just Korea, you are probably already familiar with hanbok. This historic clothing has remained in Korea for centuries, representing both historic and contemporary Korea. While traditional hanbok is very large and difficult to wear, many designers have added a contemporary twist and created modern hanbok.
Modern hanbok inherits many of the most unique elements of traditional hanbok but implements them in a more usable style for modern daily life. Modern hanbok is elegant and looks fantastic. Modern hanbok is a great Korean gift idea if you know someone who loves fashion!
Traditional hanbok can also make for an excellent gift for some people. However, traditional hanboks are often much more expensive, larger, and more of an event outfit than daily clothing. That said, If you know someone who loves hanbok, then make sure to consider traditional hanbok as a gift!
4. Pottery
Another fantastic Korean gift idea is pottery. Korean pottery is distinctive from other pottery in both form and design. Korea has a rich history, especially when it comes to pottery. Over the dynasties, porcelain, celadon, and ceramic wares have taken centre stage.
While historic pottery most commonly took on forms such as jars and pitchers, there are many contemporary spins that add traditional designs and materials to plates, cups, and more. This makes Korean pottery a fantastic traditional Korean gift – whether for its functionality or simply to put on display. Read More…
