How to Rent a Hanbok and Take Stunning Photos in Seoul – A Complete Guide 

Step 1: Choosing the Right Hanbok Rental Shop

There are plenty of hanbok rental shops near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village. Most offer:

 Traditional & Modern Hanbok – Classic elegant designs or trendy pastel styles.
 Accessories Included – Hairpieces, bags, and sometimes shoes.
 Rental Duration – Usually 2 to 4 hours, but full-day rentals are available.

 Best Areas to Rent a Hanbok:
Gyeongbokgung Area: Hanboknam, Oneday Hanbok.
 Bukchon Hanok Village: Hanbok Sarang, Hanbok Rental Korea.
 Insadong: Hanbok Story, Goguan Studio (for themed photoshoots).

2: Selecting the Perfect Hanbok

When renting, you’ll find two main types of hanbok:

• Traditional Hanbok: Classic designs with elegant patterns.
• Fusion/Modern Hanbok: Softer pastel colors, lace, or floral designs.

 Tips for Picking the Best Hanbok:
Choose vibrant colors if you want to stand out in photos.
Go for a flowy skirt to capture elegant movement in your pictures.
Don’t forget matching accessories like Norigae (노리개)(ornaments) or hairpins.

Step 3: Finding the Best Hanbok Photoshoot Spots

Once you have your hanbok, it’s time for stunning photos!

 Top Locations for Hanbok Photography in Seoul:
Gyeongbokgung Palace – Iconic palace gates & royal backdrops
Bukchon Hanok Village – Traditional hanok houses & wooden doors
Changdeokgung Secret Garden – Beautiful nature shots
Insadong – Colorful streets with a traditional feel

Step 4: How to Pose for Stunning Hanbok Photos

Wearing a hanbok is special, and the right pose can make your photos look even more stunning. Here are some classic hanbok poses pictures above or you can try the below one that work beautifully for any setting:

• Elegant Hand Placement – Lightly place your hands together at waist level, one on top of the other. This is a traditional and graceful pose often seen in historical dramas.
• Twirl for a Flowing Effect – Gently spin to create movement in the flowing skirt. This works especially well in front of palaces or open spaces.
• Over-the-Shoulder Look – Slightly turn your body away from the camera and glance back over your shoulder for a soft, dreamy effect.
• Holding the Skirt – Lightly lift the edges of your skirt as if adjusting it, creating a natural and elegant pose.
• Seated Pose – Sit on the ground with your legs tucked under, keeping your back straight. This traditional pose works well in Hanok-style settings.
• Playful Walking Shot – Walk naturally while looking slightly off-camera, as if enjoying the moment. This gives a candid and lively feel to your photo.

Practicing these poses will help you get the best results no matter where you take your hanbok photos.

Step 5: Hanbok Rental Prices & Tips

Renting a hanbok in Seoul is surprisingly affordable, but prices can vary based on rental duration, design, and accessories. Here’s what you need to know before choosing your hanbok:

1. Hanbok Rental Prices

• Basic Hanbok Rental (4–6 hours): ₩10,000–₩20,000 (approx. $7–$15)
• Premium Hanbok Rental (more intricate designs): ₩20,000–₩40,000 (approx. $15–$30)
• Full-Day Rental: ₩30,000–₩50,000 (approx. $22–$37)
• Couple or Group Discounts: Some shops offer discounts for couples or groups renting together.

2. Extra Accessories & Add-ons

• Jokduri (Bridal Crown) & Hair Styling: ₩5,000–₩15,000
• Inner Skirt (for more volume): ₩3,000–₩10,000
• Matching Purse or Shoes: ₩5,000–₩10,000

3. Essential Hanbok Rental Tips

• Book in Advance: Popular rental shops get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Reserve online to secure your preferred hanbok.
• Go Early for the Best Choices: Arriving early gives you access to the best designs before they are rented out.
• Check Return Policies: Late returns may have extra fees, so confirm the return time when renting.
• Comfort Matters: Hanbok does not have pockets! Bring a small bag for essentials like your phone and wallet.
• Weather Consideration: Lightweight hanboks are best for summer, while winter rentals often include a jeogori (jacket) with an inner layer for warmth.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free hanbok experience while making unforgettable memories in Seoul!

Step 6: Bonus – Hanbok Photoshoot Studios in Seoul

Want professional hanbok photos with traditional backgrounds? Try these hanbok photography studios:
Goguan Studio (Insadong) – Traditional Korean settings
Kyung Hee Studio (Myeongdong) – Royal-style portraits
Hanboknam Studio (Bukchon) – Indoor & outdoor shots