Year-End Party

Koreans have a month long celebration in December with year-end parties.

It’s like having Christmas spirit for the whole month.

So, here’s how Koreans socialize through the unofficial tradition of year-end gatherings!

What Is a Korean Year-End Party?

Year-end party is called Songnyeonhoe in Korean. It’s a farewell party for the year, instead of for a person.

Unofficially, it’s the most important and fun social event for Koreans.

Each social group holds separate gatherings for family, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances throughout December.

It’s a perfect chance for people to meet up, strengthen bonds, celebrate the year’s achievements, and look forward to what’s ahead.

I think Koreans eat the most in December before we go on a diet as a New Year’s resolution in January.

What Are the Types of Korean Year-End Parties?

1. Company Year-End Parties (AKA Hoesik)

Korean companies host year-end parties in the form of hoesik, which means a company dinner where you’re most likely to eat lots of KBBQ and drink soju.

The goal is to uplift employee morale, strengthen team camaraderie, and recognize the accomplishments of the year.

They often include activities, games, and entertainment with a raffle.

2. Friend Gatherings (AKA Friendsmas)

Many Koreans mark the year’s end by gathering with a small circle of friends.

As social circles don’t mix in Korea, each group of friends throws parties at homes, restaurants, hotels, or other venues.

Each party is a fun opportunity to dress up for photos, enjoy food, sip wine, have cake (a must-have), exchange small gifts, and reconnect.

3. Family Gatherings

Year-end gatherings with family tend to be warm and meaningful.

They can be with immediate or extended family members.

They’re typically more relaxed and comfortable, focusing on sharing a delicious meal at a restaurant, an upscale venue, or at home.

My family’s go-to is a king crab restaurant where we eat steamed whole king crabs until we’re full and finish with savory fried rice in crab shells!

Families usually take one or two group photos.

It’s a wonderful time for family members to spend quality time together, reconnect, and appreciate each other for the support and care shared over the past year.

What Do Koreans Share at Year-End Parties?

1. Reflecting on the Year

Year-end parties include revisiting the highlights of the year.

They provide an ideal opportunity for individuals and groups to look back on their personal and professional progress, celebrate achievements, and express gratitude.

2. Gifts (Optional)

Koreans exchange small gifts during year-end celebrations. It’s to show our goodwill and appreciation.

Gifts can be anything, ranging from snacks, drinks, tumblers to hand creams, scarves, and cute pajamas.

Thoughtful packaging and handwritten notes often accompany these gifts, making them feel more personal and meaningful.

3. New Year’s Resolutions

Similar to the States, Korean year-end parties often include conversations about New Year’s resolutions and plans for the year ahead.

They’re usually things like exercising more, eating healthier, and studying harder.

The distinction between a resolution and a goal remains vague in Korea.