Celebrate

National Hanbok Day

- October 21st, 2024

October 21st marks the celebration of National Hanbok Day, an annual event dedicated to ​honoring and reviving the tradition of wearing the Hanbok, Korea’s iconic traditional attire. ​National Hanbok Day is more than just a celebration of a garment. It is a movement to ​strengthen cultural bonds and instill pride across generations of Koreans.

#HanbokDayFIT2024

Celebrate the elegance of hanbok with #HanbokDayFIT2024 ! Capture a ​stunning photo in your hanbok, showcasing its beauty and detail. Open ​Instagram, upload your picture, and write a caption that reflects what ​hanbok means to you. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #HanbokDayFIT2024 ​to connect with others celebrating today. Tag friends to encourage them to ​participate, and when you’re ready, hit ‘share’ to showcase the beauty of this ​tradition!

The Korean government is actively implementing policies to help preserve ​the tradition of wearing hanbok. In 1996, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and ​Tourism designated October 21 as “National Hanbok Day” The Ministry also ​holds events each year to arouse public interest and further promote the ​cultural value of hanbok.

Revitalizing Tradition:

National Hanbok Day aims to bring the Hanbok back into the daily lives of ​Koreans, transcending its limited use during special occasions and cultural ​festivals. The Hanbok has existed for thousands of years.It originally was ​solid white and worn simply without ornamentation. The color white was ​seen as pure. More ornate Hanbok styles were typically reserved for special ​occasions such as weddings, celebrations, ceremonies, and other festive ​occasions. Modern Hanbok are typically patterned after those worn by ​nobility in the Joseon Dynasty, 1392 – 1897. In 1996, the South Korean Ministry ​of Culture, Sports and Tourism established Hanbok Day to encourage South ​Korean citizens to wear the Hanbok.

By encouraging modern Koreans to embrace the contemporary Hanbok, we ​seek to foster a renewed sense of cultural identity and pride. This initiative is ​inspired by a desire to reclaim and honor several global indigenous ​garments.

Cross-Generational Pride:

National Hanbok Day aims to bridge generational gaps, fostering a sense of ​shared cultural pride among Koreans of all ages. By wearing the Hanbok, we ​celebrate our rich heritage and pass down the stories, values, and traditions ​embedded in this beautiful garment to future generations.

Government and Industry ​Collaboration:

To support this cultural renaissance, collaboration between local retail ​resources, the public, and cultural organizations is crucial. Students at SUNY ​Korea’s Fashion Institute of Technology (the #1 ranked fashion college in the

world) hope to make the Hanbok more accessible through a more modern ​and contemporary. Innovation will encourage its daily use while introducing ​the Hanbok to a younger audience.

Cultural Renaissance:

By revitalizing the tradition of wearing Hanbok, you’ll not only preserve a ​significant aspect of our heritage but also create a vibrant and unified cultural ​identity that resonates with all Koreans. Join the movement of National Hanbok ​Day - October 21st, 2024 by simply wearing a Hanbok, sharing photos and stories ​on social media using the hashtag #HanbokDayFIT2024. Together, we can ensure ​that the Hanbok continues to be a source of pride and joy for generations to ​come.

To share your photos of people wearing hanbok during National Hanbok day, ​simply scan the QR code to access the hashtag #HanbokDayFIT2024 and upload ​the pictures on Instagram. Please share the attached poster with your friends so ​they can participate in this year’s National Hanbok Day

Student Contemporary ​Hanbok Design

Yea-eun Yoon

Anyang, South Korea

“My Hanbok design fused traditional and modern elements. I began by deconstructing and reimagining everyday garments, specifically denim ​jeans and an Adidas running jacket. This approach allowed me to juxtapose the historical elegance of the Hanbok with the casual, functional ​appeal of modern streetwear. By patching these materials together, I achieved a dynamic, versatile and very contemporary Hanbok. This ​innovative design not only honors the Hanbok's traditional roots but also addresses current market preferences.”

Maria Gunadi

Jakarta, Indonesia

“I choose to reinterpret the classic silhouette through a cropped jeogori-inspired jacket with modern elements. I incorporated ruched long ​sleeves, to provide a contemporary element. Additionally, the double ribbon closure at the chest maintains the elegance and simplicity of the ​hanbok. I chose batik fabric, a traditional Indonesian textile that seamlessly blends two distinct cultural elements into a cohesive, fashion-​forward piece that honors both traditions and creative innovation.”

Anežka Ryšavá

Břeclav, Czech Republic

“My name is Anežka, and I am excited to share my latest project—an elegant reinterpretation of the traditional Korean hanbok. Drawing ​inspiration from the jeogori, the upper garment of the hanbok, I have designed a wraparound vest in sheer white organza, complete with a ​refined lapel for a touch of modern essence. This garment harmoniously blends the rich heritage of the hanbok with a contemporary flair, ​resulting in a piece that is both timeless and modern. I am proud of how this design harmonizes tradition with a fresh, elegant twist, and I look ​forward to seeing how it resonates with those who appreciate a thoughtful blend of cultural and modern aesthetics.”

Hyunjun Park

Seoul, South Korea

“I explored the innovative fusion of tradition and modernity by dismantling and reimagining a vintage leather jacket. This approach enabled me ​to integrate the distinct textures of leather with the classic Hanbok silhouette. Focusing on the straight lines and geometric patterns inherent in ​the Hanbok’s sleeves and body, I reinterpreted the traditional "Geogori" in a modern context. This reinterpretation not only revitalizes the ​Hanbok but also exemplifies how historical fashion elements can be seamlessly adapted into a current design aesthetic. My garment bridges ​traditional Korean cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics. “

Seivelyn Jennifer Halim

Jakarta, Indonesia

“My design uses sheer black fabric to update the classic hanbok. The updated halter neckline design complements the modern, flowing ​silhouette. I designed Inverted pleats with smaller inner pleats at the front of the dress to give the garment a dynamic flow. A contrasting ​metallic calligraphy print on the waistband and tie pay homage to the Korean culture through thoughtful decoration. I created a unique and ​stylish piece that bridges tradition and modernity.”

Aelin Shin

Gwangju, South Korea

“I designed this mini dress using mikado silk, a fabric known for its structure and elegance. While researching the traditional hanbok, I learned ​about the significance of pleats at the armhole when wearing jeogori. This detail caught my attention, allows for ease of movement. I ​incorporated a modified pleat into the armhole of my dress. This blend of contemporary style with traditional techniques creates a unique ​aesthetic, celebrating both tradition and modern fashion.”

Zoé Wong Leung Ching

Hong Kong

“I aimed to blend tradition with sustainability. Drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of the hanbok, I sought to modernize its ​silhouette while incorporating environmentally conscious practices. Utilizing leftover denim sourced from Hong Kong, the city of my ​upbringing, I embraced the principles of upcycling to minimize waste and promote sustainability in fashion. The choice of denim not only adds a ​contemporary edge but also reflects the urban landscape of my hometown. I carefully designed a vest that captures the essence of the hanbok's ​elegant lines while offering versatility for everyday wear. By harmonizing traditional aesthetics with sustainable materials, my design process ​highlights the potential for cultural garments to evolve, fostering a dialogue between heritage and innovation in contemporary fashion.”

Nayeon Kim

Incheon, South Korea

“In my approach to designing a modern, contemporary Hanbok, my goal was to carefully balance the traditional with contemporary creativity. I ​carefully juxtaposed two fabrics to enhance my design Hanbok’s design. I hope my design redefines the boundaries of contemporary fashion. By ​blending traditional elements with modern aesthetics, I’ve created a thoughtful and uniquly modern reinterpretation of this timeless Hanbok.”

Seoeun Jang

Anyang, South Korea

“In my contemporary Hanbok design, I embraced traditional elements while incorporating modern materials and aesthetics. I chose a classic ​pin-striped cotton fabric, often used in shirt-making, to reinterpret the timeless appeal of the Hanbok. This fabric choice brings a sense of ​familiarity and everyday functionality while maintaining the elegance associated with traditional attire. The short-sleeve puff blouse is a fresh ​take on the Jeogori, with the curved hem subtly referencing the graceful lines of Hanbok closures. By opting for a curved hem instead of the ​traditional straight line, I aimed to merge historical inspiration with contemporary fashion sensibilities. This design decision enhances the flow ​and movement of the garment, offering a dynamic yet understated visual effect. My design process was deeply rooted in respecting the past ​while imagining the future, resulting in a piece that is both wearable and rich with cultural significance.”

Jiwoo Lee

South Korea

“My design process began with incorporating classic Korean elementsthat carried a deep cultural resonance. To introduce a contemporary edge, ​I featured a cascading detail on the front of the Hanbok, which adds a dynamic and modern aesthetic. The back of the Hanbok is innovatively ​designed and allows the wearer the flexibility to choose between a tight or loose fit. I hope that my redesign of the classic Hanbok will appeal to a ​broad, modern audience while maintaining its traditional significance.”

Esmeralda Leiva

Texas, United States of America

“I focused on sustainability and cultural sensitivity by utilizing deadstock denim fabrics. This approach not only reduces waste but also adds a ​unique character to the piece. My denim jacket, inspired by the traditional Hanbok, incorporates inspired elements of Korean patchwork, ​celebrating time honored craftsmanship. By carefully selecting and patching together various denim remnants, I aimed to create a ​contemporary, marketable piece that resonates with modern consumers while honoring traditional design. This fusion of innovative design and ​cultural significance results in a striking, wearable art piece that exemplifies both sustainability and style.”

Yeoreum Lee

Pyeongteak, South Korea

“I aimed to merge tradition with modernity by carefully selecting and combining three distinct fabrics: organza, traditional Korean printed silk ​fabric, and a sheer fabric called “Swiss Dot.” The translucent organza adds a sense of fluidity and pays homage to the graceful silhouette of the ​Hanbok. To create a marketable garment, I selected the Swiss Dot which gives my designa playful, sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic. ​The combination of these fabrics in my Hanbok-inspired dress bridges Korea’s historical fashion with present-day fashion trends. My hope is ​that by blending several fabrics and design elements my innovative innovative Hanbok interpretation is now appealing to suitable to a young, ​fashion-forward audience.”

Seohyoun Chun

Cheongju, South Korea

“I sought to blend timeless traditional Korean attire with the structured sophistication of a modern suit. Inspired by the clean lines and tailored ​look of Western formal wear, I focused on making the Hanbok more accessible for everyday use. My design choices add a contemporary edge to ​the classic Hanbok. Through fusing both contemporary and traditional design elements, I was to create a contemporary interpretation of a ​classic iconic fashion statement.”

Khuslen Khangai

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

“I approach my work with a deep respect for both tradition and modernity. Drawing from current trends, I sought to bridge the gap between ​traditional and contemporary fashion. My goal with this piece was to create something marketable, beautiful, blending traditional and modern ​elements that would appeal to today’s audience while honoring the timeless beauty of traditional styles.”

Yoonseo Han

South Korea

“In designing my contemporary Hanbok, I focused on a modern aesthetics. I selected a white textured fabric and paired it with a pink twill fabric ​for contrast. To maintain the elegance of a classic Hanbok, I added a shawl collar. The choice of puffed details at the sleeves and the hem allowed ​me to further modernize the look. The tie detail on the front was inspired by the ‘Jeogori’, which is a timeless Hanbok detail. To enhance its ​aesthetic appeal, I attached a traditional Korean ‘Norigae’ brooch and used pearls throughout for a modern touch.”