The Korea National University of Heritage (KNUH) is presenting an extraordinary exhibition of over 80 traditional Korean attire items, including hanbok, at the Free University of Berlin. Titled Korean Traditional Attire, Hanbok: Art of Dignified Manner, the exhibition will run from November 24, 2023, to January 17, 2024, offering a deep dive into the cultural and artistic significance of Korea's traditional clothing.
The exhibition showcases a wide array of garments, ranging from everyday hanbok to the ceremonial uniforms of Korean royalty. Visitors will also explore a diverse collection of fabrics tailored for each season, such as silk and ramie. This immersive experience not only highlights the beauty of Korean traditional attire but also underscores its functional elegance and cultural importance.
The pieces on display were crafted under the direction of Professor Sim Yeon Ok, a textile engineer and esteemed faculty member at KNUH, which is overseen by the Korea Heritage Service. Sim led a dedicated team of 32 individuals, including students, graduates, and lecturers, in recreating the garments using authentic traditional techniques.
Sim, an expert in traditional embroidery, has been at the forefront of redefining its artistic and structural role in Korean culture. In her 2020 publication, 2,000 Years of Korean Embroidery, she argued that embroidery is not merely aesthetic but a sophisticated form of structural design. The garments in the Berlin exhibition reflect this perspective, merging historical authenticity with artistic ingenuity.
The exhibition is the result of a collaborative effort that traces back to a 2018 agreement between the Korean National University of Heritage and the Free University of Berlin to enhance cultural and academic exchanges. The project exemplifies the mutual commitment of both institutions to promoting and preserving cultural heritage through education and public engagement.
“Our goal is to recreate traditional Korean garments with the same meticulous techniques used in the past to showcase the timeless beauty of hanbok,” a KNUH representative explained. The initiative highlights the enduring relevance of Korean clothing and its potential to resonate with global audiences.
Free to the public, the Berlin exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to engage with the intricate craftsmanship and historical narratives woven into every piece of hanbok. The exhibition also serves as a testament to the universal appeal of Korean heritage, aligning with the broader efforts of the Korean Wave (Hallyu) to connect cultures across the globe.
This event marks a significant milestone in international cultural exchange and reinforces the role of the hanbok as a symbol of Korea’s dignified artistic tradition. By bridging the past and present, Korean Traditional Attire, Hanbok: Art of Dignified Manner invites Berlin audiences to appreciate the elegance and craftsmanship that have defined Korean culture for centuries.
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
