Last weekend I had the pleasure of shooting Jung and Mike’s pae baek in Koreatown in Los Angeles. I had previously attended pae baeks, but this was the first time that I had ever shot one. Essentially, a pae baek (see here for more information) is a ceremony performed when Korean men and women get married. There are many elements and traditions involved with it, and I’ll try to explain some of them here with the pictures. Enjoy!

So, the pae baek was at YongSuSan on Vermont in Koreatown …

I love the details of this place! This is actually the covering of the lights in the ceiling …

Here is Jung getting ready putting on her traditional dress (hanbok) …

Now it’s Mike’s turn!

Awwww …

Jung’s all ready to go!

Now so is Mike! Nice kicks!

So intricate …

When the ceremony begins, the bride- and groom-to-be bow to different members of their family or significant people in their lives.

Tea or alcohol is then presented to the honorees.

Then, dates or chestnuts (symbolizing children) are thrown and caught, which represents how many children the couple will have!

Here is Mike carrying Jung on his back, as a public display of his strength.

Sumo time!

Congrats Jung and Mike! I had so much fun at your pae baek and your wedding! All the best!