[K-wave] Korea steps up push to list 'hanbok' culture as UNESCO heritage

Korea is stepping up efforts to have 'hanbok' culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

From government initiatives to private sector campaigns, a wide range of efforts are underway to protect, preserve, and promote its cultural significance.

Our Han Da-eun takes a closer look.

With its graceful lines, vivid colors, and exquisite design, 'hanbok' is more than just a traditional attire—it's a reflection of Korean history, value, and identity.

But hanbok has become quite distant from everyday life in Korea, and at times, has been the subject of groundless debates over its origins.

To safeguard hanbok from cultural misappropriation and to further promote its beauty and significance worldwide, Korea's leading hanbok experts have come together to launch the 'Hanbok Globalization Foundation.' Its primary goal is to have hanbok culture recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Around 180 prominent figures from hanbok-related industries have joined the group.

"Hanbok is unarguably Korea's unique traditional costume and an essential part of the country's cultural heritage. Hanbok culture should've been recognized by UNESCO long ago."

The government has recently been accelerating efforts to preserve and promote hanbok. In 2022, it designated hanbok as a national intangible cultural heritage, and last year, it unveiled the "Basic Plan for Promoting Traditional Cultural Industries" to integrate traditional culture into modern industries.

"We frequently see foreigners wearing hanbok and taking photos at Korea's traditional palaces. Hanbok has transcended time, evolving into a "hip" and trendy cultural expression."

A hanbok fashion show was held at the Paris Olympics, and specially designed hanboks will be crafted for world leaders attending the upcoming APEC Summit in Gyeongju this fall.

Hanbok is not just a symbol of Korea's cultural identity but a living tradition that plays a vital role in cultural industry. As the government and private sector continue their efforts, it's time for citizens to embrace hanbok more closely to ensure it thrives as a vibrant part of modern life, both at home and abroad.

Han Da-eun, Arirang News.