1. Why Gyeongbokgung and Hanbok Matter
A Journey Into Korea’s Living Past
Wearing hanbok,
I walked beneath the gates
of Gyeongbokgung Palace,
and I swear
the world felt slower.
The palace stones echoed history,
but it was the clothes
that truly pulled me in.
In Korea, wearing hanbok
to a royal palace
isn’t just for photos
it’s an invitation to experience
the country’s living heritage.
And Gyeongbokgung,
built in 1395,
is the perfect place to begin.
According to Visit Korea (2025),
over 2 million travelers annually
choose to visit Gyeongbokgung
many dressed in hanbok.
It’s more than sightseeing.
It’s time travel in fabric.
2. What is Hanbok?
Korea’s Traditional Attire, Reimagined
Hanbok is Korea’s
traditional dress
flowing, colorful, symbolic.
The women’s hanbok features
a full skirt (chima)
and fitted top (jeogori)
with ribbon ties.
Men wear loose trousers
and a structured top,
often paired with a vest.
These aren’t just garments.
Each line and color
has meaning
from royalty and class
to seasonal celebration.
Modern rental shops today
offer both classic styles
and trendier reinterpretations
to match personal taste.
3. How to Rent Hanbok
Easy, Affordable, and Stylish
Around Gyeongbokgung Station
(Exit 4 or 5),
you’ll find dozens of shops
that rent hanbok by the hour.
Most shops include
free hairstyling,
traditional accessories,
and even small bags.
Prices usually range
from ₩15,000 to ₩30,000
for two hours
around $12 to $25 USD.
Here are a few
well-rated shops as of 2025
-
Oneday Hanbok
-
Hanboknam Seoul
-
Seohwa Hanbok Studio
Pro tip
Go early to avoid crowds
and get the best outfits.
And yes
wearing hanbok grants you
free admission to the palace.
4. Inside Gyeongbokgung Palace
What to See and Feel
As I walked inside,
the palace unfolded
like a storybook.
Geunjeongjeon Hall,
where kings held court
stands massive and stoic.
The Gyeonghoeru Pavilion,
suspended over water,
reflected soft pinks
from nearby cherry blossoms.
Guards in Joseon-era uniforms
march the palace grounds
every hour for the changing ceremony.
Don’t miss it
it’s theatrical, rhythmic,
and surprisingly emotional.
Also, check the National Palace Museum,
located inside the grounds
it’s packed with artifacts
that tie the whole history together.
5. When to Go
Best Times and Seasons for Hanbok
Gyeongbokgung is stunning year-round,
but some seasons
elevate the experience
-
Spring (March–May)
Cherry blossoms around the walls -
Autumn (October–early November)
Falling leaves in red and gold -
Morning visits (9–11AM)
Soft light and fewer tourists
Avoid rainy summer days
unless you want
a soggy skirt and frizzy hair
trust me, I’ve been there.
6. Cultural Etiquette to Know
Respecting the Space and Dress
Even in hanbok,
you’re entering a historical site.
Here’s how to do it right
-
Walk gently, not loudly
-
Don’t climb palace structures
-
Take photos, yes
but don’t block others
And with hanbok
-
Tie your ribbons properly
-
Cover your shoulders if chilly
-
Avoid eating messy snacks in costume
Locals appreciate when visitors
treat the space with grace.
It makes the moment
feel more authentic
for everyone around you.
7. Personal Tip
From One Visitor to Another
I went on a chilly day
in early April.
The hanbok was velvet-trimmed,
my sleeves warm,
and the palace quiet.
An old Korean man passing by
smiled and said,
“예쁘다. 진짜 조선 같아요.”
(“Beautiful. You look like Joseon itself.”)
That moment
simple, genuine,
touched me more
than any landmark could.
That’s the power
of blending past and present
through culture.
Why This Experience Is So Meaningful
Walking Gyeongbokgung in hanbok
isn’t just a tourist activity.
It’s a memory
you wear on your body.
It teaches you
history through movement.
Beauty through simplicity.
Respect through clothing.
If you’re visiting Korea soon,
don’t skip this.
Dress up, slow down,
and walk a little
through the centuries.
Try This
-
Book a hanbok rental online
-
Visit Gyeongbokgung around 10AM
-
Watch the guard ceremony
-
Pack a camera
you’ll want these memories forever
And remember
it’s not about perfect photos.
It’s about the feeling.