1. Introduction to the text
Korean fashion has undergone a remarkable transformation over the centuries, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and its embrace of modernity. From the traditional hanbok to the trendsetting K-fashion of today, Korean clothing has been a canvas for self-expression, social status, and cultural identity. This text explores the evolution of Korean fashion, its cultural significance, and how it has become a global phenomenon.

2. Vocabulary

Korean Word Romanization English Meaning
한복 hanbok Traditional Korean clothing
치마 chima Skirt
저고리 jeogori Jacket
구긴 gugin Wrinkled
색동 saekdong Patchwork
K-패션 K-paeshion K-fashion
트렌드 teurendeu Trend
스트리트 패션 seuteuriteu paeshion Street fashion
아이돌 aidol Idol
글로벌 geullobeol Global

3. The main text in both Korean and English

한국 패션은 수세기 동안 놀라운 변화를 겪어왔습니다.
Korean fashion has undergone a remarkable transformation over the centuries.

전통 한복에서 현대의 트렌디한 K-패션에 이르기까지, 한국 옷은 자아 표현, 사회적 지위, 그리고 문화적 정체성의 캔버스 역할을 해왔습니다.
From the traditional hanbok to the trendsetting K-fashion of today, Korean clothing has been a canvas for self-expression, social status, and cultural identity.

한복은 조선시대 동안 정교하게 발전했으며, 계급과 지위를 나타내는 중요한 표시였습니다.
The hanbok evolved intricately during the Joseon Dynasty and served as an important marker of class and status.

치마와 저고리의 색상, 무늬, 그리고 장식은 착용자의 신분과 결혼 여부를 드러냈습니다.
The colors, patterns, and embellishments of the chima (skirt) and jeogori (jacket) revealed the wearer’s social position and marital status.

구긴 옷과 색동 무늬는 부와 지위를 상징했습니다.
Wrinkled (gugin) clothing and patchwork (saekdong) patterns symbolized wealth and status.

20세기에 들어서면서 한국 패션은 서구 영향을 받아 변화하기 시작했습니다.
In the 20th century, Korean fashion began to evolve under Western influence.

하지만 한복은 여전히 전통 의례와 축제에서 중요한 역할을 합니다.
However, the hanbok still plays an important role in traditional ceremonies and festivals.

1990년대 후반부터 K-팝 아이돌과 한류 열풍으로 인해 K-패션이 전 세계적으로 주목받기 시작했습니다.
Since the late 1990s, K-fashion has gained global attention due to the rise of K-pop idols and the Korean Wave.

현재 한국 스트리트 패션은 세계 패션계에서 큰 영향력을 발휘하고 있습니다.
Today, Korean street fashion wields significant influence in the global fashion industry.

한국 디자이너들은 전통적인 요소와 현대적인 스타일을 혼합하여 독특한 K-패션을 창조해내고 있습니다.
Korean designers are creating unique K-fashion by blending traditional elements with modern styles.

K-패션은 글로벌 무대에서 한국 문화의 다양성과 창의성을 보여주는 중요한 수단이 되었습니다.
K-fashion has become an important medium for showcasing the diversity and creativity of Korean culture on the global stage.

4. Reading comprehension questions
1. What did the colors, patterns, and embellishments of the hanbok represent during the Joseon Dynasty?
2. How did Korean fashion begin to evolve in the 20th century?
3. What contributed to the global rise of K-fashion in the late 1990s?
4. How are Korean designers creating unique K-fashion styles today?
5. What role does K-fashion play in promoting Korean culture globally?

5. Cultural and historical notes
The hanbok, Korea’s traditional clothing, has a rich history dating back to the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 935 AD). Its intricate designs and vibrant colors were deeply rooted in Korean culture and philosophy, reflecting the wearer’s social status, age, and marital status. The hanbok’s evolution over the centuries showcased Korea’s artistic and cultural heritage.