Captured in a Stamp: The Evolution of Male Hanbok

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Junho] The Ministry of Science and ICT's Korea Post will issue 672,000 commemorative stamps titled 'The Elegance of Hanbok' on the 4th to promote the beauty of Hanbok.

This commemorative stamp follows the 'The Grace of Hanbok' stamp issued on September 9 last year and features the styles of men's Hanbok from the mid-Joseon period to the Korean Empire era.

Hanbok has maintained its basic elements but evolved over time. The foundation of men's Hanbok consists of the jeogori (jacket), baji (pants), and the outer garment called po (袍, long coat). Additionally, accessories such as shoes, beoseon (traditional socks), belts, and hats complete the attire.

In the 16th century, Hanbok was characterized by wearing various types of po to display one's social status, with notably wide sleeves and long lengths. During the 17th century, amid severe turmoil such as the Imjin War and the Jeongyu War, the size of Hanbok gradually decreased, and clothing was worn considering body measurements. Popular types of po disappeared, and new styles like dopo and jungchimak (casual outerwear) became fashionable.

From the 18th to 19th centuries, jungchimak with side slits and sleeveless or easy-to-move-in garments were mainly worn. In the 20th century, with the opening of ports and the influx of Western culture, practical Hanbok became popular. During the Gabo Reform of 1894, clothing was simplified, and the narrow-sleeved durumagi was established as one of the formal attires.

Park Jongseok, head of Korea Post, said, "Hanbok has beautifully preserved its value while diversifying through the ages. We hope this commemorative stamp offers an opportunity to appreciate the elegance of men's Hanbok across different eras and to reflect on the preciousness of our Hanbok."

The commemorative stamps can be purchased by visiting a nearby post office or applying through the internet post office.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.