Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience Hanboknam ()

If you’re visiting Seoul and want to step into the spirit of Korea’s traditional elegance, a Hanbok rental at Gyeongbokgung’s most renowned store, Hanboknam, offers a perfect chance. This experience lets you wear one of Korea’s most iconic garments—the Hanbok—and capture memorable photos against the backdrop of the historic palace. With an extensive collection of around 1,000 Hanbok sets, free hairstyling, and the chance to choose from a variety of styles, it’s an experience that combines culture with fun.

What we love most about this experience is its vast selection that caters to all ages, sizes, and preferences, making it accessible for everyone. Plus, the convenience of the location right at Gyeongbokgung ensures you won’t miss out on the palace’s stunning architecture and picturesque grounds. A potential consideration is the limited duration—about 1.5 hours—which might leave some wanting more time to explore fully in costume. This experience suits travelers who enjoy culture, want great photo opportunities, or simply love wearing beautiful traditional attire.

Key Points

• Wide Range of Hanbok Styles: From traditional to themed, wedding, character, and daily Hanbok, there’s something for all.
• Inclusive Sizing and Children’s Options: Sizes from XS to XXL and Hanbok for children starting at age 1.
• Additional Services: Free hairstyling, hair accessories, and accessories for purchase.
• Convenience & Location: Located near public transportation at Gyeongbokgung, with free luggage storage and lockers.
• Affordable Price Point: At just $7 per person, the rental offers excellent value considering the variety and services included.
• Duration & Flexibility: Approximate 1.5 hours with the option to try on Hanbok twice; extra charges apply if you run over time.

In-Depth Review of the Hanboknam Experience

Setting the Scene: The Heart of Seoul’s Cultural Quarter

Starting at 133-5 Sajik-ro in Jongno District, Hanboknam’s store is both accessible and central—perfect if you’re already exploring the Gyeongbokgung area. The store itself occupies a sizable space spanning from the basement to the second floor, making it the largest Hanbok rental shop in the vicinity. This setup means you won’t feel cramped, and you’ll have plenty of options to browse through.

The Selection: Something for Everyone

One of the standout features of Hanboknam is the sheer variety of Hanbok available. They have themed designs that are trendy and fusion-inspired, perfect if you want a modern twist or to match a specific K-drama look. The traditional styles retain their classic charm, with simple yet beautiful color schemes that offer a timeless look. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Premium Hanbok options mimic royal attire worn by kings and queens, adding an extra layer of authenticity and elegance.

Children aren’t left out either; rental options start at age 1, making it a family-friendly activity. The availability of approximately 1,000 different sets means you can find a Hanbok that fits your style, size, and mood for the day.

The Experience: What to Expect

When you arrive, the staff at Hanboknam is friendly and efficient. The process begins with selecting your Hanbok—an activity that can take around 30 minutes if you want to explore various styles. As one reviewer noted, “Choosing the time of Hanbok is 30 minutes. If the times exceeds, the exceeding time will be included in the rental hours,” which emphasizes the importance of planning your choice within the allotted window.

The store offers free hairstyling, which is a fantastic added touch. Whether you prefer a simple, elegant look or a more styled updo, the staff are professional and quick. You can also select hair accessories from their collection or purchase traditional items like jewelry and souvenirs—handy for those wanting to remember the experience or take home a unique memento.

Comfort and Convenience

The rental price of just $7 per person makes this experience highly accessible. For this, you get the Hanbok, a locker to store your belongings, and inner skirt—ensuring comfort while exploring the palace grounds. The store’s amenities include free luggage storage and lockers, so you’re free to wander Gyeongbokgung without worrying about your bag.

Timing-wise, the experience lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, which is enough to enjoy the outfit and take photos. You are allowed to try on the Hanbok twice, giving you a chance to decide on the best look. Keep in mind, if you go over the allotted time, additional charges apply—1,000 KRW per 10 minutes for basic Hanbok or 2,000 KRW for themed styles.

The Photos: A Picture-Perfect Memory

One of the highlights of this experience is the chance to take beautiful photos in your Hanbok against the scenic backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of time management here, noting that the experience is as much about capturing memories as wearing the attire. The staff are helpful in guiding you for the best angles, and the variety of styles means you can match your outfit to your photo vision.

Noteworthy Extras and Tips

• Accessories and souvenirs are available for purchase, perfect for those looking for authentic keepsakes.
• Last ticket redemption is at 17:00, so plan your visit accordingly.
• To avoid extra charges, return the Hanbok and accessories before the shop closes at 18:30.
• Remember to bring ID or passport for rental purposes.
• If you’re planning to rent for a full day, be aware that the Hanbok must be returned by shop closing time.

Authenticity and Cultural Experience

While this experience centers on fun and photos, it still offers an authentic chance to wear Korean traditional attire. The themed and traditional Hanbok options give you a glimpse into Korea’s fashion history, and the staff’s attention to detail ensures you look and feel special. The added bonus of free hairstyling and accessories makes the whole process seamless and enjoyable.

Who will love this?

This experience is a great fit for solo travelers, couples, or families who want a leisurely, culturally immersive activity. It particularly suits those interested in photography, social media content, or simply experiencing Korea’s traditional dress firsthand. If your goal is to explore Gyeongbokgung with some memorable photos in traditional attire, this rental ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

For just $7, you gain more than just a Hanbok—you get access to an extensive selection of styles, professional styling services, and a convenient location right at Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s a straightforward way to add a splash of tradition to your Seoul trip, perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying Korea’s cultural heritage without breaking the bank.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate cultural outfits, love photo opportunities, and want a hassle-free but authentic dress-up experience. The large variety of Hanbok styles and the inclusive sizing make it accessible for almost everyone, including children.

While the time limit might feel tight for some, the overall value is excellent, especially considering the convenience and additional services offered. If you’re looking to add a traditional Korean touch to your visit and walk around in a stunning Hanbok, this experience at Hanboknam is worth considering.

FAQs

Is the Hanbok rental experience suitable for children?
Yes, Hanboknam offers children’s Hanbok starting from age 1, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long do I get to wear the Hanbok?
The rental duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including time for changing and photos.

Can I try on different Hanboks?
Yes, you can try on Hanboks twice during your rental period to choose the best look.

Are hairstyling and accessories included?
Basic hairstyling is free, and you can select hair accessories at no extra charge. Additional accessories are available for purchase.

What happens if I go over the rental time?
Extra charges apply—1,000 KRW per 10 minutes for basic Hanbok or 2,000 KRW for themed styles.

What should I bring to the rental?
Bring ID or passport for verification. No other special requirements are necessary.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes, it’s near public transportation in Seoul’s Jongno District, close to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Can I rent Hanbok for a full day?
Yes, but you must return the Hanbok and accessories before store closing at 18:30. Full-day rentals must be returned by shop closing time.

Are there options for themed or luxury Hanbok?
Absolutely. Themed Hanbok are very popular, especially those inspired by current trends or K-dramas. Premium Hanbok options are also available for a more luxurious experience.

Exploring Seoul’s royal past in a stunning Hanbok is a highlight for many visitors, and with Hanboknam’s vast selection, friendly service, and convenient location, it’s a practical choice for making your trip truly special.