Renting & Wearing a Hanbok in Seoul, South Korea

Wearing a hanbok while wandering through the historic streets of Seoul is one of the most popular cultural experiences in South Korea. After trying it myself, I can see why.

Not only is it a fun way to connect with Korean culture, but it also makes exploring the city’s palaces and traditional neighborhoods feel a little more special.

The good news is that renting a hanbok in Seoul is easy, affordable, and widely available. You’ll find rental shops all over the city, especially around the royal palaces.

If you’re on a tight budget, there are even a few places where you can try on a hanbok for free.

What is a hanbok?

A hanbok, which literally means “Korean clothing,” is the traditional attire of Korea. It’s worn by men, women, and children, and is known for its flowing silhouette, bright colors, and elegant lines.

A traditional women’s hanbok consists of a short jacket called a jeogori and a long skirt known as a chima. Men’s hanbok typically consists of a jeogori paired with loose-fitting pants called baji.

Although modern Koreans no longer wear hanbok as everyday clothing, it remains an important part of Korean culture and is commonly worn during weddings, festivals, holidays, and other special occasions.

Hanbok Day, celebrated on October 21, was introduced to encourage greater appreciation of traditional Korean dress.

Free admission to Seoul’s royal palaces

One of the biggest perks of renting a hanbok is that visitors wearing a complete hanbok can enter Seoul’s major royal palaces for free. This includes:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Changdeokgung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace
• Jongmyo Shrine

To qualify, you generally need to wear both the upper and lower parts of the hanbok. Simply pairing a hanbok top with jeans is not enough.

Best time to rent a hanbok in Seoul

Hanbok rentals are available year-round, but I personally think spring, autumn, and winter are the most comfortable seasons.

I visited Seoul in the middle of winter. Temperatures dropped as low as -18°C (-0.4°F), yet I was surprisingly comfortable once I had the hanbok on. Since it’s worn over your regular clothes, it adds an extra layer of insulation.

Summer, on the other hand, can be hot and humid. If you’re visiting between June and August, be prepared to sweat, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time walking outdoors.

If you’re planning to visit Seoul’s royal palaces while wearing your hanbok, make sure to check opening days in advance.

Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays, while Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung are generally closed on Mondays.

How to rent a hanbok in Seoul

There are plenty of hanbok rental shops scattered around Seoul, especially near the royal palaces and other popular tourist areas.

It’s worth noting that the quality of the hanboks, the range of styles available, and the included services can vary quite a bit from one shop to another.

For example, some rental shops include accessories with every booking, while others charge extra for them.

Women can usually rent accessories such as parasols, hand fans, small purses, and hair ornaments to complete their look.

Men can often rent traditional hats, and some shops also offer different styles and lengths of jackets, from standard waist-length versions to long coats that reach the ankles.

You’re free to browse a few shops before making your choice.

My outfit was an off-white jacket paired with a pink skirt embroidered with gold details. The skirt felt more like a tube dress than a traditional skirt.

And the jacket was either designed for a child or I had seriously underestimated my chest size, because it barely covered me.

I skipped the accessories and hairstyling because I prefer wearing my hair down and, as usual, I was trying to save a few won. Looking back, though, a few hair accessories probably wouldn’t have hurt.

If you’re struggling to choose a hanbok, don’t be afraid to ask for help. The staff are generally very friendly and happy to recommend colors and styles that suit you.

Once you’ve made your selection, the staff will help you get dressed and explain the rental terms. Depending on the shop, you may be asked to leave a deposit or some form of identification.

After that, you’re free to head out and explore Seoul for the duration of your rental.

Just remember to return the hanbok on time and in good condition, as most shops charge additional fees for late returns or damage.

Booking your hanbok online

If you’d rather avoid the hassle of comparing shops in person, you can book your hanbok rental online in advance.

Platforms such as GetYourGuide and Klook offer a variety of rental packages, often with customer reviews that make it easier to compare options.

Some packages include extras such as hairstyling, accessories, lockers, and even professional photography services.

This can be particularly useful if you’re traveling solo and want high-quality photos without having to rely on strangers for help.

How much does it cost to rent a hanbok in Seoul?

Prices vary depending on the rental shop, location, rental duration, and whether extras such as hairstyling, lockers, accessories, or photography are included.

These days, most visitors can expect to pay roughly:

• KRW 10,000 to 20,000 (USD 7 – 14) for a basic 2-4 hour rental
• KRW 15,000 to 30,000+ (USD 10 – 20) for premium or themed hanbok rentals
• Additional fees for hairstyling, accessories, photography, or extended rental periods

Many shops around Gyeongbokgung Palace offer package deals that include lockers, hair styling, and accessories.

If all you want is a hanbok without all the extras, look for a shop that charges for accessories and add-ons separately. That way, you’ll only pay for the hanbok itself.

Best places to take hanbok photos in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you’re only planning to visit one place in a hanbok, make it Gyeongbokgung Palace.

As the largest and most famous of Seoul’s five grand palaces, it offers countless photo opportunities, from majestic throne halls and ornate gates to peaceful courtyards and traditional pavilions.

The palace grounds are much larger than they appear from the entrance, so don’t stop taking photos at the main gate. Wander deeper into the complex and you’ll find quieter corners where you can capture beautiful shots without crowds in the background.

Many hanbok rental shops are located just outside the palace, making it one of the most convenient places to begin your hanbok experience.

Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden

For a slightly different atmosphere, head to Changdeokgung Palace. While its architecture is similar to the other royal palaces, the palace is especially known for its beautiful Secret Garden, which was once reserved exclusively for the royal family.

The garden is particularly stunning in spring when flowers bloom and in autumn when the leaves turn shades of red, orange, and gold. If you’re hoping for photos that feel more natural and less crowded than Gyeongbokgung, this is an excellent choice.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the most popular places in Seoul for hanbok photography.

Walking through the narrow streets lined with traditional hanok houses feels like stepping back in time.

The wooden architecture, stone pathways, and hilly lanes create a perfect backdrop for photos that look straight out of a historical drama.

Since Bukchon is a large neighborhood, you’ll have no shortage of photo spots. Just remember that this is a residential area where people actually live, so be respectful and keep noise to a minimum while exploring.

Namsangol Hanok Village

If Bukchon feels too crowded, consider visiting Namsangol Hanok Village instead.

This smaller traditional village features restored hanok houses, gardens, courtyards, and pavilions that provide beautiful settings for photos.

Because it attracts fewer tourists than Bukchon, it’s often easier to take photos without dozens of people wandering into the frame.

N Seoul (Namsan) Tower

For something different from palaces and traditional villages, head up to N Seoul Tower.

While it may not be the most historically accurate setting for a hanbok photo shoot, the panoramic views of Seoul create a unique contrast between old and new Korea.

The observation area and the famous love locks surrounding the tower also make fun backdrops, especially for couples traveling together.

Photo studios

Not everyone wants to spend hours walking around Seoul in traditional clothing. If you’d rather focus entirely on the photos, there are several hanbok photo studios around the city that offer professional indoor photo shoots.

Most studios provide a selection of hanbok, accessories, hairstyling, and professional photography. Some even recreate palace interiors and traditional Korean settings, allowing you to get beautiful photos regardless of the weather outside.

Where to try a hanbok for free (or almost free) in Seoul

Renting a hanbok is still the best option if you want to explore the city and visit the palaces.

However, if you’re short on time or simply want a quick photo opportunity, there are still a few places where you can experience Korean traditional clothing for free.

Deoksugung Daehanmun Traditional Costume Experience

If you’re visiting Deoksugung Palace on a Sunday, you can take part in a free traditional costume experience in front of Daehanmun Gate, the palace’s main entrance.

The experience allows visitors to dress in traditional Joseon-era attire and take photos in front of one of Seoul’s most historic landmarks. Registration is done on-site and no advance reservation is required.

The catch is you only get about five minutes in the outfit. Still, that’s more than enough time to snap a few memorable photos.

Keep in mind that the free costume experience is limited to the area around Daehanmun Gate. Unlike a rented hanbok, you cannot enter the palace grounds while wearing the costume.

Insa-dong PR Center

Located in the heart of Seoul’s cultural district, the Insa-dong PR Center offers a hanbok experience that is more educational than most rental shops.

Visitors can choose from a wide range of styles, including traditional royal attire, everyday hanboks, and modern interpretations of the costume. The experience takes place inside the center and is limited to 20 minutes.

While technically not free, the participation fee is only KRW 3,000, making it one of the cheapest ways to try on a hanbok in Seoul.

Advance reservations are required.

Incheon International Airport

Even if you’re only passing through Korea on a layover, you can still try on a hanbok at the Korea Traditional Culture Center inside Incheon International Airport.

The center offers a variety of cultural experiences for foreign travelers, including traditional crafts, folk games, and hanbok fitting sessions.

Visitors can choose from both traditional and modern-style hanboks and accessorize their outfits before taking photos.

Participation is free, although you will need to show your passport and boarding pass. You must also have at least 30 minutes remaining before your flight departure time.

Additional tips

Can men and children rent hanboks too?

Absolutely. Most hanbok rental shops in Seoul offer a wide range of styles and sizes for men, women, and children.

What should you wear underneath a hanbok?

What you wear underneath depends largely on the season.

During spring and summer, lightweight clothing such as a tank top, T-shirt, shorts, or leggings will help keep you comfortable.

In winter, thermal layers are a good idea, especially if you plan to spend several hours outdoors. Just avoid anything too bulky, as it can make the hanbok look awkward and feel restrictive.

What shoes should you wear?

Comfortable shoes are your best friend.

You’ll likely spend hours walking around palace grounds, traditional villages, and photo spots. While the skirt of a women’s hanbok usually covers most of your shoes, taller visitors may find them visible in photos, so it doesn’t hurt to choose something that complements your outfit.

I wore hiking boots underneath mine. Thankfully, the skirt was long enough that nobody could tell.

Do you need to bring your passport?

Many hanbok rental shops require a passport or cash deposit, so it’s a good idea to bring your passport with you just in case.

Policies vary between shops, and some online bookings may have different requirements, so check ahead if you’re unsure.

Can you leave your belongings at the rental shop?

Most hanbok rental stores provide lockers or storage areas where you can leave bulky items such as jackets, backpacks, and shopping bags.

I would still recommend keeping valuables like passports, cash, credit cards, and electronics with you. Some rental packages include a small purse or tote bag that you can carry while sightseeing.

Can you get a partial refund for returning a hanbok early?

Generally, no.

Rental fees are charged according to the package you choose, not the amount of time you actually use. Returning your hanbok early typically won’t qualify you for a partial refund.

On the flip side, returning it late may result in additional charges.

Can you rent a hanbok when it’s raining or snowing?

Yes, you can rent a hanbok in almost any weather.

In fact, a snowy day can make for some beautiful photos. Just be extra careful when walking, especially on icy surfaces, and try not to drag the hem through puddles or mud.

If the hanbok is returned heavily stained or damaged, the rental shop may charge a cleaning or repair fee.

Arrive early if you’ve booked online

If you’ve reserved your hanbok online, try arriving at least 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time.

This gives you plenty of time to browse the available designs, choose accessories, and get dressed without feeling rushed.

Is wearing a hanbok a cultural appropriation?

Generally, no. In South Korea, visitors are encouraged to experience Korean culture, and wearing a hanbok respectfully is widely seen as cultural appreciation rather than cultural appropriation.

In fact, many tourist attractions actively promote hanbok experiences, and visitors wearing hanbok receive free admission to several royal palaces. During my time in Seoul, seeing both locals and international visitors dressed in hanbok was completely normal.

As with any cultural experience, the key is to wear it respectfully and appreciate its cultural significance rather than treating it as a costume or joke.

Final thoughts

Wearing a hanbok in Seoul was easily one of the most memorable things I did in South Korea, alongside visiting the DMZ, sledding at a ski resort, and spending the night in a Korean bathhouse.

I imagine the experience would be even more magical for fans of K-dramas and historical Korean films.

Strolling through a traditional village in a hanbok, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and other visitors dressed similarly, feels like stepping into a scene from the screen.

Even though I’m not really into Korean pop culture, I still loved the experience. The elegant fabrics, beautiful designs, and the way they complemented the historic surroundings made it even more special.