is it worth it?

Yes, we had a lot of fun! We rented a hanbok from one of the most popular places in Seoul, 3355 Hanbok, for our visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

A century ago, hanboks were the traditional dress in Korea. Today, they’re only worn for festivals or special celebrations. We had a variety of styles to choose from: traditional, royal, commoner, and modern versions. Each rental included a top, bottom, handbag, and hairband, with optional upgrades like hair styling, accessories, hats, and shoes. Rentals were available for 2 to 4 hours, or an all-day experience.

We chose royal hanboks to visit one of Seoul’s largest and oldest remaining palaces. The dresses resembled a bell. The fitted jackets flattered the upper body and billowing skirts concealed the legs to give an illusion of floating over the ground. Once dressed, the royal king, queen, and princess were ready to explore the palace grounds.

The name Gyeongbok implied good fortunes and prosperity for the new Joseon dynasty. The Bugaksan Mountains towering behind the reflection of Gyeonghoeru Pavilion in Gyeonghoeji Pond was breathtaking. Meanwhile, skyscrapers and lively Gwanghwamun Square were just beyond Gwanghwamun Gate. The stark contrast between the tranquil beauty of nature, busy city streets, traditional wooden pavilions, and sleek modern skyscrapers, created a unique experience.

At 6:00pm, the palace closed and guards begin directing visitors towards the exits. The 2 hour rental gave us plenty of time to explore the palace and take a lot of photos. We felt like celebrities, posing for photos with local tourists also dressed in hanboks.

Have you rented a hanbok, was it worth it?

other don’t miss experiences in seoul

ddo-ong (poop) cafe

A giant, plush poop covered in plastic flies greeted us at the entrance of Ddo-ong (Poop) Café. A limited menu of foods served in toilet bowls was available in addition to coffees, lunch, and ice cream. Poop shaped pillows, ornaments, and toilet bowls repurposed as flower pots decorated the café.

samcheong-dong

The small streets and alleys of Samcheong-dong are filled with boutiques and shops selling soap flowers, tea, coffee, souvenirs, thimble size succulents, art, and local food. We recommend trying a hotteok: a Korean pancake filled with honey.

cheonggye trail

The Cheonggye Trail along Cheonggyecheon Stream was a peaceful escape from the busy city.

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September 2017