The Korean government has announced plans to designate the last Wednesday of every month as Hanbok-Wearing Day, encouraging public officials across government agencies, municipalities, and public institutions to wear hanbok to work. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the visibility of Korean traditional culture.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism unveiled these measures during a Social Relations Ministers’ meeting at the Government Complex in Jongno, Seoul, on December 26. These steps are outlined in the First Basic Plan for the Promotion of Traditional Cultural Industries, introduced under the Traditional Culture Industry Promotion Act, which came into effect in September.

This inaugural plan aims to create a modernized and interconnected ecosystem for traditional cultural industries while elevating traditional culture as a flagship of K-culture. The government has divided its approach into four sectors—supply, demand, mediation, and infrastructure—presenting eight key strategic tasks.

One major initiative focuses on creating opportunities to engage with traditional culture, thus generating demand. The government has committed to setting an example by improving public awareness and increasing consumption of traditional culture. This includes regular hanbok-wearing at government and public institutions, especially on national holidays and 57 commemorative days designated as “dress code days” for hanbok. Additionally, hanbok uniforms will be introduced for public-facing roles, such as museum and gallery guides, and Hanbok Culture Week will be observed annually during the third week of October.

The government will also focus on strengthening the industry’s foundation by fostering traditional cultural enterprises, particularly youth-led startups, through phased growth support. Plans include developing role models among globally competitive companies and establishing tailored financial and investment support systems for traditional cultural enterprises. Research and development (R&D) in traditional culture industries and expanded financial backing are also key components of this strategy.

Efforts to stimulate the global presence of Korean traditional culture include expanding domestic and international distribution channels, increasing participation in international exhibitions like Maison & Objet, and promoting hanbok and other traditional crafts through overseas Korean Cultural Centers. Programs such as the distribution of Korean Culinary Culture Boxes will further enhance the international profile of Korean traditions.

Minister Yoo In Chon emphasized the significance of these efforts, stating, “The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, alongside other government entities, municipalities, and the private sector, aims to successfully implement this plan over the next five years. We are committed to elevating traditional Korean culture into a high-value Hallyu industry.”

 
Sayart / Joy, nunimbos@gmail.com