Korean couples ditch luxury wedding halls for $19 public venues

With his wedding just four months away, 29-year-old Kim Yun-ho nearly canceled the ceremony. Faced with venue and catering costs reaching tens of millions of won, he considered settling for a family dinner. But his plans changed when he discovered a city-run wedding venue in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, that cost just 30,000 won ($19) to rent.

"I applied because I could have a special outdoor wedding at a low cost," Kim said. "I am now able to hold a wedding surrounded by the blessings of family and friends." Kim's experience highlights a growing trend, as local governments nationwide open public facilities and parks as low-cost wedding venues.

The initiatives aim to ease the financial burden on engaged couples and encourage marriage to combat Korea’s low birthrate. Suwon began taking applications last month for four public sites, including Gwanggyo Historical Park. By June 23, the city had received 22 requests, with three couples finalizing their bookings.

The city charges 30,000 won for a two-hour rental. Meals follow standard city rates, starting at 35,000 won per person for boxed opt