Changes in Hanbok

• Following the Korean War (1950-53), a modernization campaign was undertaken. As a result, by the 1970’s the hanbok went out of fashion and was replaced by Western-style dress. Hanboks were worn all the time in the past. But now, they are only worn for special occasions. The Lunar New Year (late January, early February) is a good example of this.
• Nowadays skirts of two and a half widths of cloth are generally worn; however, today's cloth is about twice as wide as in ancient times. Most of today's chima have shoulder straps for ease in wearing.
• In olden days, hanbok differed according to the wearer's gender, class, profession and social status, with other variations depending on individual preference and lifestyle. Ceremonial clothes for weddings, funerals and other important occasions, especially those worn by royalty and court officials, showed the most diversity. However, it no longer defines social classes or profession nowaways.