Kitschy castles for lovers

Here’s this week’s tip on Korean language and customs:

Q:
When I take the expressway to get to the countryside, I can see buildings that look like castles. I am told they are “love” hotels. Why are Korean love hotels made to look like European castles? Does the inside of the hotels have medieval-themed rooms as well?

A:
Despite some changes in social structure, the majority of Koreans still adhere to a traditional way of life in which more than one generation of family members live together in a relatively small apartment. Thus, love hotels naturally became a solution for couples ― legally married or illicitly engaged ― seeking privacy away from home.

For most Koreans, their visions and ideals of romance are heavily influenced by Western culture, and Koreans have associated it with somewhat overly romanticized or even “exotic” dramas they had seen on television or movies.

Many love hotels, conveniently located within a one-hour drive from the city or so, have become couples’ weekend getaways as they have an elaborate decor and amenities such as spas, restaurants and bars as well as entertainment facilities.

As far as the exterior of love hotels, some hotels go overboard with their design ― spires, neon lights and colorful stucco ― in order to lure curious customers. Others are plain and affordable.