Secrets Hidden in Carnations: Unraveling Their Symbolic Meanings
Heading: Parents' Day Flower Shopping Frenzy at Yangjae Flower Market in Seoul
Looking for blooms on May 7? You're not alone. That's the day before Parents' Day in South Korea, and people flock to Yangjae Flower Market in Seocho District, southern Seoul to grab carnations for their parents. [YONHAP]
Yangjae Flower Market turns into a bustling hub for flower shopping. This isn't just a shopping trip - it's a traditional prelude to honoring parents on Parents' Day, celebrated on May 8.
Fave Flower Choice: Carnations
Why carnations? These vibrant blooms symbolize love and admiration in Korean culture. Both red and pink carnations are popular choices. Kids often pin them as corsages, while in schools, little ones might handcraft paper carnations as thoughtful gifts.
But carnations are not the only gifts. Shoppers frequently pick up accompanying gifts like brooches, pen-shaped carnations, or even artificial flowers.
Deals Delight: Secondhand Sales
It's not just about buying fresh flowers. In recent times, there's been a growing trend for economical celebrations. Many prefer buying secondhand or artificial flowers, and platforms for reselling nearly-new carnations and Parents' Day gifts have gained traction.
Parents' Wish List: Beyond Carnations
Though carnations remain popular, surveys show that parents prefer practical gifts like cash, clothing, or health supplements. Yet, the custom of presenting carnations continues to hold strong.
Cultural Roots: Filial Piety
The carnation tradition in South Korea stands as a testament to the deeply-rooted value of filial piety - respect and gratitude toward parents. The rush to Yangjae Flower Market and the act of exchanging gifts serve as a reinforcement of familial bonds.
Key Practices to Note
- Fresh or artificial carnation purchase for parents
- Selecting additional gifts, such as brooches, health supplements, or cash
- Surging sales on the day before Parents' Day (May 7)
- Increasing use of platforms for reselling or buying used flowers/gifts
- School children handcrafting paper carnations
These key practices showcase the cultural traditions and modern consumer trends binding South Korea's Parents' Day celebrations at Yangjae Flower Market. [2][1][4]
- In Seoul's Yangjae Flower Market, carnations are a popular choice for consumers during the day before Parents' Day, as they symbolize love and admiration in Korean culture.
- Besides fresh flowers, consumers are increasingly opting for secondhand or artificial flowers, reflecting a growing trend towards economical celebrations.
- Beyond carnations, parents in South Korea prefer practical gifts like cash, clothing, or health supplements, although the tradition of presenting carnations persists.
