hanbok

Hanbok is the traditional clothing of Korea, characterized by clean lines and a graceful silhouette. Its basic form comprises the jeogori, a short jacket that covers the upper body, and the lower garments: chima, a full wrap-around skirt worn by women, or baji, loose trousers worn by men. The jeogori closes with a decorative ribbon called goreum, and a variety of accessories, such as the norigae, may adorn the hanbok, especially for women.

Historically, hanbok developed over centuries, with its modern silhouette solidified during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). Daily attire tended to be white or pale, while festive or ceremonial outfits employed bright colors and contrasts through color-coded fabrics and layered pieces. Common motifs included symbolic colors and patterns, such as saekdong stripes for children or lucky colors for weddings. The overall design emphasizes a high waist and a roomy top with a narrow waist and long trailing lines.

Materials range from silk and ramie to cotton, with modern hanbok also made in synthetic fabrics. Court or formal attire, such as gwanbok, used stiff, structured lines and decorative embroidery; everyday hanbok favors softer, lighter fabrics and simpler lines. Variations reflect gender and age: women wear chima with jeogori, men wear baji with jeogori; some ensembles include additional outer garments in winter.

Today, hanbok is worn for holidays such as Seollal and Chuseok, as well as weddings and celebrations. It has inspired contemporary fashion designers, leading to modern hanbok silhouettes that blend traditional elements with Western fashion. The garment remains a national symbol and is studied and preserved by museums and cultural organizations in Korea and abroad.