
Hanbok is known for its vibrant colors, elegant lines, and flowing silhouettes.
Here’s exactly when Koreans wear hanbok!
Quick Summary
- Although Koreans no longer wear hanbok as a daily outfit, we still put it on for special occasions and important events in our lives.
- Hanbok is for everyone from babies, and kids to newlyweds, adults, and even dogs.
- Koreans are also happy to see non-Koreans wearing hanbok. We don’t think of it as cultural appropriation.
1. For Wedding Photoshoots and Weddings
One of the most common occasions for wearing hanbok is at weddings in South Korea.
Korean brides and grooms take professional pre-wedding photoshoots in both Western-style dress and hanbok.
Hanbok is optional but most people do it because it’s really beautiful and cute.
On a wedding day, brides and grooms wear dresses and tuxedos and often change into hanbok to greet guests at the buffet after the ceremony.
Also, family members of the bride and groom, especially their moms, wear hanbok to celebrate the special day.
You can read more about the Korean wedding guest dress code, which is quite unique.
2. For First Holiday Visits After Marriage
After a couple gets married, they visit their families during major holidays like Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving).
Especially when the newlyweds have bought hanbok for their weddings, they take it out of the closet and wear it for the first visit.
It’s not only cute but also a great way to win the hearts of in-laws. Parents, grandparents, and relatives will really appreciate this gesture.
Once they greet the family members and finish bowing, they change into a more comfortable outfit.
Also, most Koreans stop wearing hanbok for holidays after this initial visit.
3. For Dol Janchi (First Birthday Party)
Another big event where hanbok makes an appearance is a baby’s first birthday, also known as dol janchi.
The birthday baby is dressed in a super cute hanbok called dol hanbok.
The baby often wears a bokgeon (traditional hat for boys) or a jobawi (traditional hat for girls) as well.
Before the birthday party, the new family takes professional dol photoshoots in hanbok.
While hanbok is optional for the parents, many Koreans wear hanbok to match the festive atmosphere.
4. For Major Holidays As Kids
During major Korean holidays like Seollal and Chuseok, kids sometimes wear hanbok.
They mostly put it on for Seollal to perform sebae or New Year’s bow to elders.
While it’s more common among little ones, some pets get dressed in hanbok for fun.
Many Koreans enjoy dressing up their dogs in tiny hanbok outfits. Because it’s just adorable!
5. For Visiting Palaces and Historic Sites
Beyond formal events, hanbok has become a popular fashion choice for young Koreans and people visiting touristy areas.
There are many hanbok rental services near places like Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul and the ancient city of Gyeongju.
Wearing hanbok grants free entry to certain palaces as well.
Hanbok is a wonderful way to enjoy taking photos in traditional settings while appreciating the history.
Most Koreans wear hanbok on special days to respect traditions, create memorable experiences, and take beautiful pictures.
Regardless of the occasion, hanbok is a perfect way for Koreans to reconnect with our heritage and embrace its elegance.