This past summer, faculty and students from MICA collaborated with international faculty, students, and guests from the Hanbok Advancement Center in South Korea to explore the traditional garment as well as innovative approaches to learned tradition.

Hanbok, the traditional attire of the Korean people, was worn daily until approximately 100 years ago. Today, it is considered semi-formal or formalwear, and is worn on special occasions or anniversaries. The defining features of the hanbok are its simple lines and use of natural dyes to create vibrant colors—elements that have had a major impact on the modern fashion industry.  

Participants in the workshop studied the history and cultural aspects of hanbok as garment and costume while gaining skill in machine and hand stitching, embroidery, hand-painting, and natural dyeing. The course culminated in an exhibition of hanbok examples made by participants