Where to Buy Pearls in Korea: Jinju Nara

Special post for any Mothers of the Bride & Groom!

Are you about to get married in Korea?

This is a tip you need to know!

If your mother is going to wear a hanbok to the wedding, as is tradition, better get your pearls ready. Pearl earrings and a special pearl ring is typically worn together with the hanbok, completing an already gorgeous ensemble. Nowadays, people often just order cheap knockoffs on coupang, but if you want to do the real thing (which I always recommend), the spot to go is Jinju Nara 진주나라.

The ahjusshi shopkeeper is a proper comedian. He had us laughing the whole time, which made him a very smooth salesman, as my mother-in-law pointed out with a knowing smile.

“아이구, 아닙니다. 아니죠. 그냥 어머님의 아름다움과 가장 잘 어울리는 진주를 추천드릴 뿐이죠.” (“Aigo, no no. I’m just suggesting pearls that will match Mother’s beauty the best."

But besides his slick sales techniques, he is a knowledgeable professional. He showed us pearls of varying degrees of perfection and prices, until we landed on the ones we liked. He expertly shaped the pearls into earrings right then and there, and shined them until we were satisfied with creamy glow that emanated from them.

The earrings came out to about 300,000 KRW - an extremely reasonable price for the value.

Jinju Nara 진주나라 is located at Jong-ro Jewelry Town, and well worth a visit if you want to buy beautiful, quality pearls.

If you’re getting married in Korea, don’t skip out on the pearls. They’re a delicate and traditional touch to make your mother shine on your special day.

See our wedding photos here for more wedding inspiration :)

Need help planning your wedding? Read “How To Plan a Korean Wedding - The Ultimate Guide”