[LETTERS TO THE EDITOR]Expensive dowry a shame

I have a friend who will be getting married in a few days.
She was really stressed out because her in-laws were demanding an expensive dowry. Then she said she was pressured to buy luxurious goods for her new home. I was really disappointed that such practices are still going on.
For a marriage, there are many things that are more important than those materialistic matters.
It is more than enough to buy the basic goods necessary for a married couple to begin a new life, but a dowry has become a means of displaying one’s wealth.
It is not too late. Instead of buying expensive goods for marriage to show off their wealth, couples must prepare for a new home.
Such a practice should be encouraged from now on.
A truly meaningful dowry is not expensive and luxurious goods, but rather a serious attitude toward marriage. It is preparation to cope with a dramatic change in life.
Brides must study to be good housewives and prepare to live a harmonious life with new family members. That is the most important preparation and meaningful dowry.

by Cha Hye-suk