Shyeons

Shyeons are a subset of formal, uniformed appearance from the medieval period in Korea. They were worn by high-ranking government officials and nobility. The term "shyeons" literally translates to "court attire."

For both men and women, the outfits consisted of intricately embroidered silk garments. They typically included a pair of tight-fitting, long-sleeved jackets and matching pants known as "jeogori" and "baejeogori." The jeogori was tied at the side with silk ribbons, while the baejeogori was sometimes pleated or gathered at the hip. Accessories such as hat ornaments, sashes, and jewelry were also integral parts of the overall ensemble.

The styles and colors used varied according to social status and occasion. Darker hues and bolder patterns signified higher rank and honor. Royal family members often wore even more elaborate designs with more vibrant colors, incorporating motifs of dragons, phoenixes, and clouds.

The Shyeons were highly regulated and governed by strict etiquette rules. Specific fabrics, patterns, and adornments were reserved for specific occasions and titles. The intricate designs not only dictated the hierarchy but also reflected the wealth and status of the wearer. With the decline of these regional kingdoms, use of Shyeons gradually diminished as court attire, and they eventually fell out of favor. However, Shyeon-style attire has exerted a lasting influence on Korean traditional dress and continues to be an important part of Korea's cultural heritage.