Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week is one of the most magical times to visit South Korea’s capital. Imagine strolling through royal palaces painted with autumn colors, dressed in a hanbok that flows with every step, as if history itself has welcomed you into its arms. This festival is not just a celebration of clothing—it’s a bridge between past and present, a way to feel Korea’s heartbeat through fabric, tradition, and unforgettable experiences. If you are planning a trip to Seoul in October 2025, this is the event you cannot miss.
What Is Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week?
Hanbok Culture Week began in 2018, launched by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Craft & Design Foundation. Over the years it has grown rapidly, now spanning 11 cities nationwide with over 300 venues hosting exhibitions, performances, workshops, and fashion shows. Twice a year—in spring and autumn—the streets of Korea transform into a living celebration of its most iconic traditional attire.
The Seoul edition, known as Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week, takes place in October. Venues include the Seoul Museum of Craft Art, Changgyeonggung Palace, Cheong Wa Dae (the former presidential residence), and the National Folk Museum of Korea. What makes this event especially attractive for foreign visitors is that it’s not just about looking at hanbok in a museum—you get to wear it, walk in it, and make your own memories in one of the world’s most photogenic cities.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week 2025
1. Free Palace Entry in Hanbok
If you wear hanbok, you can enter Seoul’s major palaces—Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, and Changgyeonggung—without paying a ticket. This alone is worth it, since entrance fees can add up if you plan to visit multiple sites. More importantly, walking inside the palaces in hanbok transforms the experience: instead of being a tourist, you feel like part of a living story.
2. Autumn Leaves and Perfect Photos
October is peak foliage season in Seoul. Golden ginkgo trees line the streets, red maples frame the palace gates, and soft sunlight creates a warm, romantic glow. Wearing hanbok against this backdrop makes every photo look cinematic. Many couples even schedule pre-wedding shoots during Hanbok Week because the scenery is so breathtaking.
3. Dazzling Fashion Shows
Each year, Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week presents outdoor runway shows featuring both traditional designs and modern reinterpretations. In 2024, the show titled Han_Gyeol: Extraordinary Ordinary turned the Seoul Museum of Craft Art into a stage where 40 models walked among symbolic house structures. The golden sunset, the music, and the artistry of hanbok design created a performance that left audiences speechless.
4. Hands-On Experiences
It’s not just about watching—you can join in. Workshops teach you how to style hanbok properly, how to tie the intricate ribbons, or even how to create small accessories like norigae charms. Children can try traditional games, and adults can join cultural lectures or embroidery classes. For many, these workshops become the highlight of the trip.
5. A Modern Twist on Tradition
Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week is not only about history—it’s about innovation. Designers present contemporary hanbok collections that blend modern fabrics, streetwear influences, and practical comfort. You might see a hanbok-inspired jacket paired with sneakers, or a flowy skirt that works as everyday wear. It’s proof that hanbok is not stuck in the past but continues to inspire new fashion trends.
6. Cultural Forums and Talks
Want to dive deeper? The event also includes forums where experts discuss the cultural meaning of hanbok in the modern world. These talks explore how hanbok has evolved, how young people are embracing it again, and why it matters for Korea’s identity on the global stage.
7. Family-Friendly Fun
Many families visit during the festival. Children love the chance to dress up, take part in games, and pose for photos. Parents appreciate that the festival is affordable, interactive, and educational. It’s a great way to introduce kids to Korean culture in a playful, memorable setting.
8. Easy Hanbok Rentals
Worried about how to get a hanbok? No problem. Rental shops around Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Insadong make it simple. Prices range from $10 to $20 for a few hours, with premium sets costing slightly more. Many shops also offer hairstyling services and accessories, so you can go all out for your palace photoshoot.
9. A City-Wide Festival
While palaces are the main attraction, the entire city embraces Hanbok Week. Museums, cultural centers, and even shopping districts host events. Online contests, social media campaigns, and digital hanbok experiences make it easy to join, even if you can’t attend in person. The sense of celebration is everywhere in Seoul.
10. Memories That Last Forever
At the end of the day, what makes Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week unforgettable is the feeling. You might forget the exact schedule or the names of the designers, but you won’t forget how it felt to wear hanbok under autumn skies. That memory stays with you, long after you’ve left Korea.
Personal Reflections
Last October, I wore a sky-blue hanbok and walked through Deoksugung Palace just as the sun began to set. The fabric shimmered in the light, and for a moment, I felt like I was walking in a painting. Children pointed, tourists snapped photos, and elderly Koreans smiled warmly, perhaps remembering their own childhood when hanbok was daily wear. Later, I sipped warm tea in a traditional teahouse in Insadong, still wearing hanbok. The shop owner complimented the outfit and told me, “You look like someone who belongs here.” That small sentence turned the day into something I will never forget.
Festival at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | Third week of October (2025 schedule TBA) |
| Main Venues | Seoul Museum of Craft Art, Changgyeonggung, Cheong Wa Dae, National Folk Museum |
| Organizers | Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism; Korea Craft & Design Foundation |
| Programs | Fashion shows, exhibitions, workshops, palace entry, forums, VR booths |
| Nationwide Scale | 11 cities, 300+ venues |
| Main Audience | Younger generation, tourists, cultural enthusiasts |
Practical Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Plan Your Route: A perfect day might look like this: rent hanbok near Gyeongbokgung → explore the palace → walk through Bukchon Hanok Village → end the evening in Insadong with tea and street food.
- Best Photo Time: The golden hour (4–6 pm in October) provides warm light for stunning hanbok photos.
- Nearby Food Stops: After your palace visit, try traditional Korean desserts like bingsu or hotteok in Insadong. For something more filling, there are restaurants serving bulgogi and bibimbap nearby.
- Public Transport: Most venues are accessible by subway. Gyeongbokgung Station and Anguk Station are the most convenient stops.
- Weather Tips: October evenings can be chilly. Some hanbok rentals provide shawls or coats—ask when you book.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to wear hanbok to join the events?
No, you can attend exhibitions and performances without hanbok. But wearing it enhances the experience and provides free palace entry.
Is the event only in Seoul?
No, Hanbok Culture Week is celebrated nationwide. Cities like Jeonju, Namwon, and Asan also host their own programs, but Seoul remains the largest and most diverse hub.
Can foreigners rent hanbok easily?
Yes! Rental shops cater to tourists with English, Japanese, and Chinese support. Some even offer group packages for families or couples.
How much does hanbok rental cost?
Basic sets start at around $10 for 2 hours, while premium designs with accessories may cost $25–$30. Many shops allow half-day rentals, perfect for sightseeing.
Is it suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Kids’ hanbok sizes are available, and many activities like games and crafts are designed with families in mind.
Learn More
For updated schedules, visit the Seoul Tourism Organization and Korea Craft & Design Foundation.
Explore More with Seoulpoise
Interested in more cultural insights and travel ideas? Visit our categories: Explore Korea | Korea Canada Events.
Conclusion
Seoul Autumn Hanbok Week is more than a festival—it’s a memory-making experience. Whether you’re walking through golden palaces, learning the art of hanbok styling, or simply sipping tea while wrapped in silk, the feeling is the same: you are part of something timeless. For travelers seeking not just a trip but a story, this is the ultimate autumn experience in Seoul. Don’t just read about it—step into hanbok and make the story your own.