Setting up a new life together isn’t just romantic in Korea—it’s also a massive logistical operation, especially when it comes to buying home appliances.
Whether you're planning to live with a Korean partner, or you're just curious about local trends, here’s a look into what Korean newlyweds buy for their homes, how the culture around it has changed, and what brands dominate the market.
💍 The Korean “Shinhon” (Newlywed) Culture: A Quick Look
In Korean tradition, marriage involved a clear financial split:
- 🏠 Groom’s side: Provided the house
- 🛏️ Bride’s side: Brought all the furniture and home appliances (혼수 / hon-su)
But in recent years, this has changed. More couples split the cost, buy together, or even start with small setups and upgrade over time. Some even live together before marriage and already have many essentials.
Still, most couples use marriage as a reason to upgrade everything—from smart TVs to air purifiers.
🛒 Must-Have Appliances for Korean Newlyweds
Here’s what you’ll typically find on a Korean newlywed appliance checklist, especially in urban apartments:
1. Refrigerator (냉장고)
Often the most expensive and largest item.
- 📦 Popular Models:
- Samsung BESPOKE Series – Fully customizable doors & interiors
- LG DIOS InstaView – See inside by knocking on the door
- 🛍 Tip: Many couples go for 4-door fridges, especially if cooking at home is frequent.
2. Washing Machine & Dryer (세탁기 / 건조기)
With Korea’s humid summers and cold winters, dryers are a must.
- 📦 Popular Combos:
- LG TROMM Dual Wash + Dryer Set – Stackable and smart control
- Samsung AI Wash – Learns your laundry habits
- 🧼 Newer models offer AI features, app control, and steam sterilization.
3. TV & Entertainment (TV + 사운드바)
Koreans love home dramas, Netflix, and YouTube.
- 🖥️ Top Picks:
- Samsung QLED 4K Smart TVs – Stunning picture
- LG OLED Evo – Popular with gamers
- Samsung Soundbars – Slim design & Dolby Atmos
- 🛋️ Living rooms are often minimalist but the TV setup is high-end.
4. Air Conditioner (에어컨)
Summer heat can be intense in Korea, and most homes use wall-mounted split systems.
- ❄️ Best-Sellers:
- Samsung Wind-Free AC – Quiet and energy-saving
- Carrier Inverter AC – Affordable and efficient
- ✅ Tip: Buy in spring or fall to avoid summer price surges!
5. Air Purifier (공기청정기)
Because of fine dust (미세먼지) and yellow dust, purifiers are considered essential.
- 🌫️ Popular Choices:
- Coway Airmega – Trusted brand with solid filters
- LG PuriCare – Stylish & smart sensor-based
- Blueair – Favored by expats
6. Microwave + Rice Cooker (전자레인지 + 전기밥솥)
Rice is a staple, and microwave usage is very common in compact homes.
- 🍚 Top Picks:
- Cuckoo Rice Cookers – Korean favorite, includes porridge & multigrain
- Panasonic Microwaves – Good for compact spaces
- 🎁 Often given as wedding gifts from relatives.
7. Dishwasher (식기세척기)
Not always standard, but increasingly popular among dual-income couples.
- 🧽 Options:
- SK Magic Countertop Dishwasher – Great for small apartments
- LG Built-in Dishwashers – Larger and high-end
- 🔄 Korea has a strong culture of washing by hand, but this is changing.
8. Vacuum Cleaner (청소기)
Korean homes don’t use carpets much, so stick vacuums or robot cleaners are preferred.
- 🧹 Popular Models:
- LG CordZero A9 – Strong suction, slim design
- Samsung JetBot AI+ – Robot cleaner with camera
- Dyson V11/V15 – Premium option
🏷 Average Appliance Budget for a Korean Newlywed Couple
| Refrigerator | ₩2,000,000 – ₩4,000,000 | Often highest cost |
| Washer + Dryer | ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,000,000 | Stackable or side-by-side |
| TV + Soundbar | ₩1,200,000 – ₩3,500,000 | Depends on screen size |
| AC | ₩1,000,000 – ₩2,500,000 | Per room unit |
| Air Purifier | ₩500,000 – ₩1,500,000 | Some homes have 2–3 units |
| Others (Microwave, Rice Cooker, etc.) | ₩500,000 – ₩1,000,000 | Varies by brand |
💡 Total Budget: Around ₩7M–15M ($5,000–12,000) depending on brand and lifestyle.
💬 Cultural Note: Honeymoon Fund or Appliance Fund?
While some cultures give wedding gifts in kind, Korean weddings often include cash envelopes. This “축의금 (chuk-ui-geum)” is used:
- To cover wedding costs
- Or sometimes to buy household items and appliances
💌 Tip for expats attending weddings: Expect to give ₩50,000–100,000 as a guest.
🛍 Where Do Koreans Buy Appliances?
- 🏢 Hi-Mart (하이마트) – Korea’s largest electronics chain
- 🛒 ElectroMart (by E-Mart) – Trendier, good for gadgets
- 🖥️ Samsung & LG Online Stores – Direct discounts, custom sets
- 💻 Coupang & 11st – E-commerce platforms, fast delivery
🏬 Department stores like Lotte and Hyundai also offer "newlywed appliance bundles" (혼수 패키지) with discounts.
📦 Bonus: Korean Brands to Know
| Refrigerator | Samsung, LG |
| Washer/Dryer | LG, Samsung |
| Air Purifier | Coway, LG, Blueair |
| Rice Cooker | Cuckoo, Cuchen |
| AC | Carrier, Samsung |
| Dishwasher | SK Magic, LG |
✨ Tips for Expats
- 🧾 Receipt needed for warranty – Always register your product online
- 💳 Some stores offer 12-month installment plans (할부) without extra fees
- 🛠️ Installation is usually included, especially with big retailers
- 🗣️ Staff may not speak English—bring a Korean-speaking friend or use Papago app
✅ Final Thoughts
Setting up your first home in Korea? You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed.
Korean newlyweds treat appliance shopping like a milestone, not just a chore. Whether it’s matching BESPOKE refrigerators or finding the quietest robot vacuum, it’s all about comfort, style, and harmony.
So don’t just move in—move in smart.
