Every culture has its more curious idiosyncrasies, and South Korea is no exception. Of particular note is an old, traditional courtship ritual. Known as the Haam ceremony, it is one of the world’s most delightfully quirky methods of proposing marriage.

In preparation for this ceremony, the hopeful groom and a party made up of his best friends and male family members will dress up in their finest clothes. They will then complete the ensemble by taking a full dried squid, cut eye holes in it, and tie it to their faces as a mask. So adorned, they will parade through the street to the home of the bride-to-be, making their presence known loudly and boisterously. One of them carries the haam for which the ceremony is named; this is a gift box that is presented to the family of the bride. With any luck, the family will accept the haam and receive the party with a feast, thusly accepting the proposed marriage.

If you are looking for a more conventional way to enjoy squid, come to our Bellevue Korean restaurant and try our pan-broiled squid, our calamari ring, or one of our other delicious dishes.