Hanbok
Hanbok Photoshoot in Seoul: What Tourists Should Know
Traditional Korean dress, royal backdrops, and how to plan it without stress.
Wearing a hanbok, Korea's traditional dress, is one of the most memorable things you can do in Seoul. Paired with a palace or hanok lane, it makes photos that could only have been taken here.
The short version
- Hanbok rental is arranged separately and isn't included in the photoshoot package.
- Wearing a hanbok gets you free entry to Seoul's royal palaces, as long as the outfit meets the palace's hanbok rules.
- Allow time to change before your session starts.
- Best routes: Gyeongbokgung & Gwanghwamun, or Deoksugung & Jeong-dong.
Renting a hanbok
Rental shops cluster around Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon. A few tips:
- Book or arrive early on weekends and holidays.
- Choose a set you can walk in. You'll move between spots during the session.
- Ask about free palace entry. Some fusion or modern styles may not qualify. The rental shop can tell you.
- Hair styling is often offered for an extra fee. Decide in advance so you're not rushed.
Which route suits hanbok best?
Gyeongbokgung & Gwanghwamun (Route C). Grand gates and painted eaves. The most iconic hanbok backdrop. Closed on Tuesdays. Gyeongbokgung guide
Deoksugung & Jeong-dong (Route B). Traditional halls and Western-style buildings, plus the stone-wall road. Closed on Mondays. Deoksugung guide
Bukchon & Samcheong-dong (Route A). Hanok lanes. Beautiful with hanbok, but please be extra mindful of residents. Bukchon guide
Palace photography rules
Taking photos as a visitor is part of the palace experience, but professional photoshoots inside palace grounds may require advance permission depending on the type of shoot and equipment. With Ashlee Seoul Snap, palace-interior shooting, admission and any permits are checked case by case before you pay. If interior access isn't possible, the session stays in public areas.
Timing your hanbok session
- Pick up your hanbok and change.
- Walk to the meeting point. Allow 10–15 minutes.
- Your session time starts at the agreed meeting time.
- Return the hanbok within your rental window.
Morning sessions usually mean calmer palaces and a relaxed rental return.
Which package?
Hanbok works with every package: $190 quick (30 min, 15 photos, 3 clips), $290 solo (60 min, 25 photos, 5 clips), $420 couple (90 min, 40 photos, 10 clips), $490 family (90 min, 55 photos, 15 clips). See Seoul photoshoot prices.
Frequently asked questions
Is a hanbok included in the photoshoot price?
No. Hanbok rental is arranged separately with a rental shop. Allow time to change before your session.
Do you get free palace entry in a hanbok?
Yes, Seoul's royal palaces offer free entry to visitors wearing a hanbok that meets the palace's hanbok rules. Ask your rental shop if your set qualifies.
Where is the best place for a hanbok photoshoot in Seoul?
Gyeongbokgung is the most iconic, while Deoksugung offers a calmer setting with traditional and Western-style buildings. Bukchon's hanok lanes also work well with care for residents.