A video of Taiwanese men confidently strolling through Gyeongbokgung Palace in female hanbok has taken South Korea’s online community by storm. Their unique sartorial choice and self-assured demeanor have sparked amusement among Korean netizens, while also highlighting the growing interest and respect for Korean culture among foreigners. This lighthearted interaction serves as a bridge between cultures, fostering mutual understanding and breaking down barriers.
Introduction
A video of Taiwanese men confidently walking through Gyeongbokgung Palace’s ‘Hyeobsaengmun’ in hanbok, traditional Korean attire, has gone viral on Instagram. ‘Hyeobsaengmun’ is the gate that was used by the Crown Prince during the Chosun Dynasty when leaving the palace. However, a twist in the tale lies in the fact that the hanbok they are wearing is not the male version but the female version. This unexpected sartorial choice has sparked a lively discussion among Korean netizens, with reactions ranging from amusement to admiration.
A Clash of Expectations
The female hanbok is typically associated with graceful movements and a demure demeanor. In contrast, the Taiwanese men in the video stride with an air of confidence and assertiveness. This juxtaposition of femininity and masculinity has tickled the funny bone of many Korean viewers, leading to a flurry of humorous comments on the online community theqoo.
Theqoo’s Amusing Observations
theqoo members have found particular delight in the way the men’s skirts billow with each step, using phrases like “the skirts swish with majesty” to describe their movements. Comments praising the men’s ability to pull off the female hanbok have also emerged, with some even suggesting that the skirts offer a welcome reprieve from the summer heat.
Detailed Transformations and Imaginative Scenarios
The Taiwanese men’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond the hanbok itself. They even sport the traditional “ddaljam” hair accessory, adding to the visual spectacle. This attention to detail has further fueled the creative imaginations of theqoo members, who have conjured up various scenarios to explain the men’s unusual appearance.
From Debt Collectors to Royal Inspectors
Some have jokingly suggested that the men are debt collectors disguised as noblemen, while others have envisioned them as courtesans paying a visit to the palace. A particularly creative comment likens the men to undercover royal inspectors, observing the palace from within.
Unexpected Beauty and a Global Trend
Despite the unconventional nature of their attire, the Taiwanese men’s confidence and sense of style have earned them admiration from many Korean viewers. Some have even commented on how handsome the men look in the female hanbok, challenging traditional gender norms.
This trend of foreigners embracing hanbok, regardless of gender, is becoming increasingly common, particularly among tourists. Many couples opt to wear opposite-gender hanbok as a souvenir of their Korean adventure, adding a touch of whimsy to their travel experience.
Welcoming Embrace and Cultural Sensitivity
The positive reception of these cross-dressing hanbok enthusiasts highlights the open-mindedness and welcoming attitude of Koreans towards foreign visitors. Their playful approach to dressing up in traditional attire is seen as a sign of respect and appreciation for Korean culture.
A Note on Palace Entry Fees
One point of discussion raised by some netizens was the issue of palace entry fees. In the past, there was a policy that restricted free entry to palaces for women wearing male hanbok. However, this policy has been revised in line with human rights recommendations, and now both men and women can enter palaces for free, regardless of the hanbok style they choose.
Conclusion
The Taiwanese men’s hanbok escapade serves as a reminder that fashion can be a fun and expressive way to engage with different cultures. Their lighthearted approach to traditional attire has not only sparked amusement but also fostered a sense of cultural connection and appreciation. As Korea continues to welcome visitors from around the world, such playful interactions are bound to become more common, enriching the cultural landscape and fostering mutual understanding.
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Taiwanese guys are so chill! I hope Taiwan stays peaceful so they can keep being so awesome.