Are you a fan of hanboks and planning to rent one while in Korea? Imagine the joy of owning a hanbok, allowing you to bring a piece of Korea’s rich cultural heritage back home. Beyond its elegance and traditional charm, owning a hanbok lets you experience the artistry and history it embodies, giving you a meaningful souvenir you can wear anytime.
Hanboks are popular traditional outfits in Korea, with locals often wearing them during special holidays such as Chuseok and Seollal, as well as during visits to landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace. These holidays are significant as they honor family reunions and ancestral traditions, making the hanbok a symbol of respect and cultural pride. Over the years, hanbok shops have grown in number, with many travelers buying beautiful pieces as souvenirs from their trip to Seoul.
Looking for the best hanbok shops in Seoul? We’ve got you covered! Each shop on our list offers something unique, from historical significance to exceptional craftsmanship. Whether it’s a family-run boutique preserving generations of tradition or a modern store showcasing innovative designs, these hanbok shops promise an experience that goes beyond mere shopping.
This guide lists excellent boutique, markets and shops where you can choose from a diverse collection of beautiful hanboks to match your style. Plus, we’ve included helpful tips to consider before buying your first hanbok. Keep reading to find out more.
Join a Hanbok Photoshoot in Seoul
Want to create amazing pictures of you while you wear your hanbok? Join a hanbok photoshoot in Seoul and capture your travel memories with a local photographer! Here at Photo Trips, we curated some of the best photographers in Seoul and we made hiring them super easy. We created travel experiences dedicated to taking pictures of you in hanbok at traditional areas like Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village.
Want to learn more? Check out our best hanbok photoshoots in Seoul here!
1. Gwangjang Market
If you’re looking for high-quality yet affordable hanboks, our top recommendation is Gwangjang Market. You’ll find a wide selection of boutiques and shops here, giving you unlimited options to choose your preferred style and color.
Be patient when selecting your options, as the process can be time-consuming. To make your visit more efficient, consider visiting during weekdays or early in the morning when the market is less crowded. Additionally, it’s helpful to research shops in advance to narrow down your options and save time. Don’t settle for the first piece you find, as better choices may await in other stores. Most shops at Gwangjang Market offer customized fittings, which take around 2 to 5 weeks to complete.
Prices range from 200,000 to 700,000 Korean won ($140 to $480), depending on materials and size. For comparison, renting a hanbok for a day typically costs around 20,000 to 50,000 won ($14 to $35), making purchasing a hanbok a worthwhile investment if you plan to use it multiple times or keep it as a unique souvenir.
Location: Gwangjang Market
2. Namdaemun Market
Another excellent option for budget-friendly hanboks is Namdaemun Market. The affordability stems from shop owners using cotton instead of nylon for the clothing material. Here, you’ll find hanboks in a rainbow of colors and sizes to suit all body types.
Many shops also allow you to customize the fit. You can find hair accessories and bags that complement your hanbok beautifully.
Location: Namdaemun Market
3. Insadong Culture Street
For a more traditional and authentic hanbok, visit Insadong Culture Street. Hanbok shops are scattered throughout, with many vendors offering discounts if you buy more than one piece.
Besides vibrant hanboks, Insadong Culture Street is a great spot for authentic souvenirs, arts, and handicrafts. You’ll also find various street food stalls—a reward after a day of shopping.
Location: Insadong Culture Street
4. Dongdaemun Shopping Complex
Dongdaemun Shopping Complex, one of Asia’s largest markets, features large hanbok shops and fabric distributors offering unlimited material options. This shopping complex sells all types of hanboks, from traditional to modern styles.
Many shops also sell matching accessories, bags, and jewelry. Nearby stores offer local souvenirs that showcase Korea’s traditional culture.
Location: Dongdaemun Shopping Complex
5. Hanboknam
If you’re heading to Gyeongbokgung Palace and need a hanbok for a photoshoot, Hanboknam is a top choice. It’s not just a rental shop—it’s also famous for sourcing beautiful and unique hanbok designs for sale.
You can choose from over a thousand options in various sizes and colors. The shop also offers hanboks for kids, along with matching hair accessories, bags, and shoes.
Location: Hanboknam
6. Suseolhwa
For modern hanboks with a traditional flair, check out Suseolhwa. This store primarily caters to women, offering elegant designs featuring flowers, lace, and intricate patterns.
The staff are friendly and can recommend styles that suit your body type. The hanboks come in a wide range of colors and sizes.
Location: Suseolhwa
7. Teterot Salon
Teterot Salon specializes in casual yet stylish hanbok pieces, perfect for travelers wanting a memorable souvenir. The store offers hanboks in various colors, designs, and sizes, including options for kids.
The quality of the pieces is excellent, with intricate designs that stand out. Prices are higher than night market options but reflect the superior quality.
Location: Teterot Salon
8. Hoya in Seoul
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Hoya in Seoul offers hanboks that celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage. It’s an excellent choice for plus sizes due to the variety of options. The staff are patient and helpful, offering advice on wearing the hanbok to ensure it looks perfect.
They also provide alteration services for a perfect fit, though this comes with an additional charge.
Location: Hoya in Seoul
9. Arang Hanbok
Arang Hanbok is ideal for high-quality yet budget-friendly hanboks that are lightweight and comfortable, even during summer. The shop offers colorful options suitable for all skin tones and provides custom-fit services.
Location: Arang Hanbok
Online Shops that Sell Hanbok
If you prefer shopping online, several stores offer modern hanboks with elevated styles. These are perfect for when you’re short on time.
Joteta
Joteta is a fantastic online store offering a wide range of hanboks for all occasions. Their pieces are known for their modern designs and high-quality materials.
Website: https://joteta.com/
Ongozishin
Ongozishin specializes in 100% Korean-made hanboks crafted from naturally dyed cotton. It’s a top choice for both traditional and modern designs.
Website: https://smartstore.naver.com/82box
Zijangsa
Zijangsa is renowned for modern hanboks, gaining fame after BTS’s Jungkook wore one of their designs. They offer options for all genders and ages.
Website: https://zijangsa.com/
Hanbok Sarang
Hanbok Sarang focuses on traditional hanboks and offers packages for couples. It’s a great choice for weddings or special occasions.
Website: https://hanboksarang.com/
Things to Know Before Buying a Hanbok
Buying your first hanbok requires careful consideration to ensure you choose the perfect piece. Here are some tips:
Price Range
Set a budget before shopping. Affordable options can be found at Gwangjang and Namdaemun Markets, while more expensive ones are available at Hanboknam and Dongdaemun Shopping Complex.
Clothing Material
Nylon hanboks are luxurious and comfortable but pricier. Cotton hanboks vary in quality based on the thread count. Higher thread counts, like 20s for spring or autumn and 30s for summer, provide a finer feel.
Pre-dyed vs. Post-dyed
Pre-dyed hanboks offer consistent colors that don’t bleed over time, unlike post-dyed options.
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Buying a hanbok is a wonderful way to bring home a piece of Korea’s rich cultural heritage. Use this guide to find the perfect shop or online store for your style and preferences. Happy shopping!
If you finally decide to only rent a hanbok, here the best hanbok rental shops in Seoul!