When to Send Flowers in Korea
Korea has a rich tradition of giving flowers for various occasions throughout the year. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, expressing gratitude on Parents' Day, or congratulating someone on their achievements, understanding the right time to send flowers can make your gift even more meaningful.
Major Korean Holidays for Flower Gifting
Parents' Day (어버이날) - May 8th
One of the most important flower-giving occasions in Korea. Children of all ages send carnations to their parents as a symbol of gratitude and love. Red carnations are traditionally given to living parents, while white carnations honor parents who have passed away.
Teacher's Day (스승의 날) - May 15th
Students show appreciation to their teachers with flower bouquets. Carnations are popular, but roses and mixed bouquets are also common choices. This tradition reflects Korea's deep respect for educators.
Valentine's Day (발렌타인데이) - February 14th
While chocolate is the traditional gift from women to men, flower delivery has become increasingly popular. Red roses are the classic choice for expressing romantic love.
White Day (화이트데이) - March 14th
Men reciprocate Valentine's Day gifts with flowers, candy, and other presents. White flowers, roses, and spring bouquets are especially popular during this celebration of love.
Personal Celebrations
Birthdays (생일)
Flower bouquets are a wonderful birthday gift in Korea. Unlike Western traditions, Koreans often celebrate with seaweed soup (미역국) and cake. Adding a beautiful flower arrangement makes the celebration even more special. Popular birthday flowers include roses, sunflowers, and seasonal mixed bouquets.
Graduation Ceremonies (졸업식)
Graduation season in Korea (typically February for schools and universities) sees a huge demand for flower bouquets. Large, impressive bouquets are given to graduates by family and friends. This tradition celebrates academic achievement and the start of a new chapter in life.
Tip: During graduation season, it's best to order flowers 2-3 days in advance to ensure availability and on-time delivery.
Wedding Anniversaries (결혼기념일)
Couples in Korea celebrate wedding anniversaries with romantic dinners and gifts. Red roses remain the classic choice, but pink roses, lilies, and elegant mixed arrangements are also popular for expressing enduring love.
Traditional Korean Holidays
Lunar New Year (설날)
While not traditionally a flower-giving holiday, modern Koreans increasingly send orchids and potted plants to family members as symbols of prosperity and good fortune for the new year.
Chuseok (추석)
Korea's harvest festival is a time for family gatherings. Sending flowers or plants to relatives you can't visit in person has become a thoughtful modern gesture of respect and well-wishes.
Business and Professional Occasions
Grand Openings (개업)
When a business opens, sending a celebration wreath (축하화환) is customary in Korea. These large floral displays are placed at the entrance to wish success and prosperity.
Promotions and Achievements
Koreans celebrate professional milestones with flowers. A beautiful bouquet or arrangement congratulating someone on a promotion or achievement shows thoughtfulness and respect.
Year-Round Occasions
- Hospital visits - Bright, cheerful flowers (avoiding white-only arrangements)
- Housewarming - Orchids and potted plants symbolizing prosperity
- Apologies and reconciliation - Sincere bouquets to express remorse
- Thank you gestures - Any thoughtful arrangement to show gratitude
- Just because - Surprise flowers to brighten someone's day
Cultural Note: In Korea, the number 4 is considered unlucky (similar to the number 13 in Western culture), so avoid giving exactly 4 flowers. Even numbers are generally preferred for happy occasions.
Ready to Send Flowers to Korea?
Browse our collection of beautiful bouquets and arrangements, perfect for any occasion.
Shop Flowers Now