Korea as a single unit has a long and very strong history that saw multiple ups and downs throughout. In today’s world, both countries flaunt a number of amazing destinations and so much more than that. But in today’s blog, we are going to have a look at Korean traditional dresses. Now, these dresses are overlooked by many people with the likes of Chinese clothes. And if you too are one of those, we will get that changed. This blog will tell you about multiple such dresses of Korea which are still popular in many places.
So, let’s understand and have a look at the Korean traditional dresses that would make your eyes shine bright.
1. Hanbok
If you search the internet or have a look at the number of attire options that are available in Korea, we believe Hanbok is going to be the best. It is also one of the most popular dresses available in the country. There are multiple options that can be bought in this dress and some of them are available across the world. The Hanbok dress is also known to be one of the most versatile attire of the world because be it the way of wearing it, colors, materials being used, or even the accessories- all of it is quite amazing and different.
Hanbok is also the dress that you will see many saints and preachers wearing in Korean movies and dramas.
2. Jeogori
The next outfit is Jeogori which is nothing else but a short jacket. This completes the outfit of Hanbok but also comes in use in many other dresses. Jeogori can be seen in a woman’s Hanbok and at times young kids also wear it with different attire. Jeogori is also known to be the “element of beautiful structure” in many dresses of Korea, right from the beginning. Usually, apart from Hanbok, this cloth is worn with full skirts.
Coming onto the design and beauty of this dress, you will get it majorly in simple structural form. It is mostly created in a rhythmic flow where the dress compliments your body movements.
3. Gatsin
Gatsin is the footwear that’s popular in Korea from the bygone era itself. Also known as Gomsin or flower shoes; these are the traditional Korean shoes. These were initially made out of leather because that’s the richest or best material that can be used in creating shoes but over time, there have been a lot of tweaking and twisting done. People have now started using multiple other materials and even mixtures.
These shoes are a bit different from the usual ones because they look elegant. Mostly, you will find them in a single color which will make it even better. Women wear this under Hanbok and other dresses as well.
4. Binyeo
Have you noticed the fancy and elegant hairpins that Korean women use in their bun? These hairpins are known as Binyeo and whenever they are used, the bun is known to be Chignons. That’s what these people call their tied hair using Binyeo. Although it is used to keep the Chignons in place, there is more to it.
Binyeo has always been seen as an ornament which beautifies the ladies and their overall looks. A binyeo is made of different items and there are multiple designs for the same. You can enjoy the looks of it. In the bygone era, Binyeo was being used as an ornament because it was intriguingly designed. You still can find places where you get it made out of glass and it looks absolutely stunning.
5. Baji
So another interesting and now worldwide popular but Korean-origin lower is Baji. It is one of those dresses that you can see people wearing even in today’s time. Baji is popularly known as Korean traditional pants. Baji can be recognized by its style and fit. This attire is baggy or loosely fit pants that are worn like other jeans or pants. There is no fixed color or fabric of this attire. You can get it in different styles, fabrics, and colors. And in today’s time, you will see a lot of people pairing it with different-different upper wear.
6. Chima
Talking about the various Korean traditional dresses and not considering Chima in your list would be a bummer. Because in not just Korea; but across the globe- Chima is a very popular attire for females. In the country of origin which is Korea; Chima is a common or generic term given to a skirt that is worn with a short jacket and Jeogori- usually. Over time, there have been a lot of new varieties that have come up in the market.
7. Dangui
Amongst the traditional dresses of Korea- Dangui is also a name that you will hear from a lot of people. It is amongst the popular dresses of the country which has been there in the world for a long time now. Dangui is called by different names like Dang-Jeoksam, Dang-Jeogori, Samja, Danggoui, and Dang-hansom. Since the very beginning, this dress was popular and very much loved by women in the country. And so is it today! Like any other attire, this one also has a lot of variations, not just across the globe but even in the country. If you visit a not-so-developed region of South Korea, where people still wear traditional attire regularly- you will get to the actual fit, style, and design of this cloth.
8. Jeonbok
Jeonbok, also known as a Jeogori, is a traditional Korean upper garment and an integral component of the Hanbok, the country’s iconic attire. The Jeonbok refers specifically to the uppermost part of the Hanbok, the jacket-like piece that covers the upper body. It is typically short and fitted, featuring a cross-over front with strings or toggles for fastening.
Jeonboks come in various designs, colors, and patterns, and their style may vary depending on the wearer’s gender and the formality of the occasion. Historically, they played an important role in reflecting one’s social status and age, with different styles and colors reserved for specific age groups and classes. In modern times, Jeonboks are still worn during traditional and formal events, including weddings, festivals, and important ceremonies, where they continue to symbolize Korean cultural identity and elegance.
9. Dopo
Dopo is a traditional Korean outer garment worn as part of the Hanbok, the country’s traditional attire. It serves as a jacket or vest and is typically worn over the Jeogori (the upper garment) and Chima (skirt or trousers). The Dopo is characterized by its short length, straight sleeves, and a boxy or vest-like appearance.
It often features bold and vibrant colors and intricate patterns, making it an essential element of the Hanbok’s overall aesthetic. The design and style of the Dopo can vary based on the wearer’s gender and the formality of the occasion. While it has historical roots, the Dopo is still worn on important cultural and traditional events, symbolizing Korea’s rich heritage and its enduring connection to its classical clothing traditions.
10. Hwarot
The Hwarot is a traditional Korean bridal robe, renowned for its ornate and symbolic design. It is a symbol of purity, modesty, and grace. Typically worn during weddings, the Hwarot is a two-part ensemble comprising a long, empire-waisted jacket and a full-length skirt. It is characterized by its vibrant and intricate embroidery, often featuring auspicious symbols such as cranes, peonies, and plum blossoms. The Hwarot’s colors, primarily red and blue, represent happiness and fidelity. The jacket’s long, sweeping sleeves and the voluminous skirt contribute to a regal and elegant appearance, befitting a bride on her special day. This attire not only reflects the bride’s beauty but also signifies the cultural and ceremonial importance of the occasion.
Conclusion
We know, there are not many options available at per your convenience but the dresses that we have mentioned in the blog are pretty. If you are one of those people who love collecting different dresses, then pick any of them. Also, we believe some of these costumes can be worn at certain festivals as it will help you in looking better.
See Also: Traditional Dresses of India | Chinese traditional dresses
