Housewarming parties have many different traditions depending on which country you are in. In the United States, the norm is to show off your new home or apartment to friends and family. At most housewarming parties in the United States you will bring a dish, snack or some alcohol for the host and guests. There are many similarities between the activities, but the gifts are quite different. For example, in Korea for a “Jipdeuri” (집들이) or housewarming, it is common to bring tissue or toilet paper and detergent. The tradition of giving tissues is so their future will unravel smoothly and everlasting. The significance of the detergent is so their wealth will keep growing like soapsuds. I found it a bit strange at first to give someone toilet paper and detergent, but I guess it is more practical than other gifts.
My first experience with a Korean housewarming party happened this weekend. The host was one of the MBA office workers and the party consisted of other workers, students and their families. We headed to their house together after class to the beautiful area of Damyang. I had ventured to the bamboo forest so I was excited to experience a Korean house in the countryside. My first impression was magnificent; their house was located in a beautiful and peaceful area, which had some fabulous scenic landscapes on the horizon.
After we help set up the tents it was time to fire up the grill. My fellow classmates and I manned the grill, but first we grabbed a few much needed beers and some makgeolli (it was HOT out!). We started grilling pork, sausages, squid, shrimp and many other wonderful meats and veggies. After finishing up on the grill it was time to eat. There was plenty of food and drinks for everyone, there were around 30 of us there and it was a really great time.
After lunch. we spent some time playing baseball and soccer in their yard. The weather was a bit hot, so we decide to relax and enjoy some ice cream and enjoy each other’s company. After a few hours, it was time to take off and head back home. The party was great and it was great to experience a Korean housewarming party, especially in the beautiful countryside of Damyang.