I am always searching “what to wear” in each country I visit. The goal is the blend in, be comfortable, and try out new styles. This was easy in Korea. The fashion of today is generally comfortable. Baggy clothes, neutral patterns, neutral tones, and sneakers. I was all for this. However, there was one cultural dress that NEEDED to be found. It is still worn for special occasions in South Korea, and is worn at least once by every dedicated feminine tourist on their trip; the Hanbok. 

As traditional clothing of the Korean people, the Hanbok is worn in South Korea on special occasions, however, it is still worn regularly in North Korea. Apparently North Korea still lives life permanently stuck in the 1950s. The term Hanbok is used most commonly in South Korea, whereas North Koreans simply refer to it as Chosǒn-ot (Korean Clothes.) 

The Hanbok in general has been worn since antiquity. Meaning, it’s been around a LONG while! Early images and paintings show women and men wearing them back in 57 BC. The basic structure of todays Hanbok has been established since the 4th and 6th century AD. The gown itself consists of a crop-top styled coat (po) and wide skirt (chima.) The men wear a top called a jeogori and pants called baji. Both styles allow the wearer to move easily in both, and they are so pretty!! Colorful, white, plain, patterned, you can find ALL kinds today. 

If you rent a Discover Seoul Bus pass in Korea, you can rent a Hanbok at a couple locations around Seouls palace entrances for free. Otherwise the cost to rent one for the day is $7-$30. Not bad. This makes the perfect photo opportunity to commemorate your trip to Korea. You wont be alone either. You’ll pass hundreds of other tourists and locals also wearing all styles of Hanbok on the streets near the palaces. Men and women. It was really fun to see people getting into the spirit of the location. 

I chose a less colorful rendition of the Hanbok for its simplicity, but also because I wanted to blend into my surroundings. However, many women wore rainbow skirts, sparkly coats, and had their hair intricately designed. When you rent a Hanbok, they direct you on what to wear, help you find the right color, and its a very trusting society. You can pay extra for hair accessories and most shops have pins, hairspray, and mirrors for you to get ready with.

Would you wear one? Check out my Instagram about my experience and let me know if you plan to do the same!