Unwrap the Magic of Korea: 18 Unique Holiday Gifts for Your Loved Ones!
Looking for something extraordinary to gift this holiday season? Whether you’re surprising a loved one or treating yourself, these carefully curated Korean treasures will bring a touch of culture and charm to your celebrations. I love giving gifts from the country that I’ve decided to call home and if you have someone in your life interested in Korea, or at the very least interested in very aesthetically pleasing items, this list of unique gifts from Korea is for you.
From traditional crafts to modern must-haves, this list is filled with gifts that go beyond ordinary and are sure to delight anyone on your list. Not your standard Korean souvenirs, this list has something for the tea-lover, the Korean culture obsessed, the book-lover, fashionista, and skincare-interested. Discover what makes these Korean finds so special!
What to buy someone who loves Korea:
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1 A Han Kang Novel
For the book lover in your life, a novel by Han Kang is a must-have. Whether it’s the haunting prose of The Vegetarian or the reflective beauty of The White Book, this is a gift that brings award-winning Korean literature into their hands. Han Kang is the first South Korean to receive the Nobel Prize in literature.
2 Money With A Korean Twist
Want to give cash, but with a cultural spin? Gift it in a stunning bojagi-style envelope! Wrapped in traditional Korean cloth with a norigae charm, it’s a beautiful way to turn a simple money gift (which is the most common form of a gift in Korea) into something meaningful and unforgettable.
3 Traditional Korean Artwork
Looking to bring Korean culture into someone’s home? Choose from exquisite artwork by Jean Lee, available on Etsy. Print it on delicate Hanji paper and frame it for a gift that combines history, beauty, and a personal touch.
4 Mother of Pearl Jewelry Box
Gift the elegance of royalty with exquisite najeonchilgi items, featuring stunning mother-of-pearl inlays that have adorned Korean treasures since the 6th century. The intricate mother-of-pearl inlays dance in the light, making it a luxurious keepsake for your loved one. A perfect blend of elegance and history, this box is a treasure in itself.
5 KORE LIMITED: Korean Inspired Streetwear
Know someone into fashion? KORE LIMITED merges streetwear with Korean heritage in unique designs loved by celebs like Sandra Oh and Tiger JK. Give them a piece of modern Korea that they can wear proudly! KORE LIMITED fits are comfortable, cool, and fashionable.
6 Personalized Korean Alphabet Necklace
For a loved one learning Hangeul or someone who loves personalized accessories, a custom Hangeul necklace is the perfect, meaningful gift. Whether it spells their name or a special word, this wearable art is a beautiful way to showcase Korean culture.
8 Korea Inspired Cozy Blanket
This holiday season, give the gift of comfort with a Korea-inspired blanket! With Hanbok motifs and symbols of Seoul, it’s a cozy and stylish addition to any K-drama lover’s life. Perfect for those chilly nights binge-watching their favorite shows.
9 Korean Bucket Bag
Add a touch of tradition to someone’s style with a Korean Bucket Bag. With its luxurious quilted cotton and peony-embroidered handle, this three-way bag combines function with fashion—an everyday accessory that’s anything but ordinary.
10 Ginseng Wellness Kits
Give the gift of health this holiday with a ginseng wellness kit! Korean red ginseng is known for boosting immunity and vitality, making it the perfect gift for the wellness enthusiast in your life. Packaged beautifully, it’s both practical and thoughtful.
11 Korean Ceramic Ware
For the home décor enthusiast, elevate their style with gorgeous Korean ceramics. From white porcelain (baekja) to rustic earthenware (onggi), these timeless pieces bring elegance to every room.
12 Traditional Art With a Modern Twist
Looking for something that blends tradition with a modern vibe? A downloadable print featuring contemporary takes on traditional Korean art is a chic and thoughtful gift. Perfect for adding a cultural pop to any space.
13 Jogakbo Patchwork Window Treatment
Help someone refresh their home with the artistry of Jogakbo window treatments. These translucent fabrics softly filter sunlight, blending nature with tradition, and adding a harmonious touch to any room.
14 OSULLOC Tea Set
Tea lovers will appreciate the gift of an OSULLOC tea set. Known for their high-quality Jeju teas, OSULLOC brings the soothing essence of Korea into every cup. It’s like gifting a peaceful moment in a beautiful package. There are some amazingly delicious Korean teas. This is a fabulous gift option.
15 A Korean Cookbook
The Korean Cookbook: 350 authentic and delicious Korean recipes for the home cook, written by the perfect guide to this extraordinary cuisine. Authored by Junghyun (JP) Park, the renowned chef and owner of 2 Michelin star Atomix, JP along with his wife, Ellia Park, run four restaurants in New York – Atoboy, Naro, Seoul Salon, and Atomix.
Jang: The Soul of Korean Cooking: When it comes to Korean cooking, it all starts with the authentic sauces. Named the Best New Cookbook of Spring 2024 by Eater and Epicurious, author Mingoo Kang is a Michelin star winner with a restaurant in Seoul and features 60 very accessible recipes.
16 A Hangul Dojang, or Name Seal
This personalized gift is as unique as it gets. A Hangul dojang, or name seal, is still used in Korea today, and makes for a deeply personal and lasting gift. It’s a timeless keepsake that celebrates both Korean culture and your loved one.
17 A Charming Korean Coloring Book
Know someone who loves to color? A Korean-themed coloring book featuring hanboks, folk paintings, and picturesque streets is the perfect gift for creatives or anyone seeking a relaxing activity. Hours of artistic fun, straight from Korea!
18 Make-Your-Own Makgeolli Kit
For the craft beverage enthusiast, a DIY makgeolli kit is a fun and interactive gift. Making Korean rice wine at home is easier than you’d think, and this kit provides everything they need for a delightful brewing experience—cheers to that! We tried this makgeolli kit from Hyesun House and loved it and think you will too.
Buying gifts for friends and family can be a wonderful opportunity to share Korean culture and history. From food to art, there’s something for everyone, and maybe something that you’ll love for yourself too.
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