A Memory from a Korean-American Childhood – Itchy Hanboks

For those who may not know, a hanbok is a traditional South Korean assemble. And with Seollal (Korean New Year) having just passed, many people would’ve donned one for the celebration. It reminded me of those days long past when I had to wear an itchy hanbok this time of year, in addition to any other celebration during the year.

It was the equivalent of wearing uncomfortable Sunday church attire, which I had to do as well. There’s multiple parts to the outfit and you’d be in big trouble if you got it dirty! So it’s basically a straight jacket for any fun-loving kid!

Funny thing though, I don’t recall ever seeing boys in traditional Korean attire. It seems after the first birthday, boys tend to be let off the hook! Meanwhile, I had to put on a starchy hanbok until about age 12! (That’s about when I would’ve upgraded to adult size but didn’t because hanboks are expensive!)

So for as much as I hated having to wear a hanbok when I was a kid, I put my own kid in a hanbok for his first birthday without even a second thought! Why? Because I knew he would look stinking cute in it!

Thus, I can only assume that is why my mother and and all those other mothers force their little girls into hanboks every chance they get. It’s almost like being a princess for a day in your dress of flowing silk (or other fine material) colorfully and skillfully embroidered with flowers or birds!

Kids in Hanboks are like Walking Rainbows

I must admit, there is something special about kids wearing hanboks or other traditional clothing. It just makes the celebration more festive! Also, hanboks tend to be colorful so that in itself helps liven things up!

So even though my son has outgrown the hanbok from his first birthday, I just might get another one for the next Korean celebration! He’ll probably hate it and I’ll probably hate making sure he doesn’t get it dirty, but it’ll be worth it for the adorable pictures!…And the cycle repeats itself! 😆

Did you have to wear a hanbok too? Do your kids wear one and what do they think about that? Share in the comments!