BTS recently held a performance at the NBC Jimmy Fallon Show, a famous American talk show. BTS wore hanbok and sang 'Idol' in the background of Geunjeongjeon in Gyeongbokgung Palace, a Korean National Treasure. Gyeongbokgung Palace was selected as a special stage among several palaces in consideration of the fact that it was visually open due to the large space and the ease of installation of the stage. It is here where BTS attracted attention to this unique location and hanboks.
BTS has appeared in modern hanbok on various occasions and acts to promote Korean traditions and culture. BTS had a last 20 minute set at the 2018 Melon Music Awards where they performed the performance, "Idol". With a hanbok on, the band member, Jimin, appeared on stage to dance the "buchaechum" which is a traditional form of Korean dance using fans. Other members of BTS also wore distincts styles of hanbok while performing "Idol". Idol was the kickstart of BTS journey as brand ambassadors of Korean culture. Even the music video displayed BTS wearing a variety of hanboks while dancing against the backdrop of a bright yellow pavilion floating in clouds of vibrant hue.
When "Idol" came out, foreign media were quick to point out BTS' involvement with Korean culture and many fans all around the world quickly learned about the clothing style of modern hanbok.
On Chuseok, which is a national Korean holiday, BTS greeted fans in various styles of modern hanbok like ones they wore in "Idol." Even in the airport, a member of BTS, Jin, was caught seeing a traditional hanbok from head to toe. This took place when BTS arrived at Incheon Airport to attend Mnet's Asian Music Awards in Hong Kong.
As the BTS Hanbok became a hot topic, various K-pop idols such as Zico, Kang Daniel, and Black Pink, as well as broadcasters, models, and sports players, showed their appearance in modern hanbok. The New York Times (NYT) recently highlighted the phenomenon of K-pop stars wearing hanbok. NYT said, "Hanbok, a traditional Korean costume, was usually worn on holidays, but it is reinterpreted by modern Korean designers. Now, people in Korea often wear modern hanboks casually because of the popularity of this new style aroused by Kpop artists.
The popularity of hanboks also extends to babies. Baby hanboks are also gaining traction as Kpop groups reveal their admiration for hanboks. Baby hanboks are used in traditional celebrations like Doljanchi and Baek-il. With the onset of modern hanboks and Korean culture spreading throughout Western countries, Korean celebrations for babies are on the rise and a demand and appreciation for baby hanboks have seen a surge as reported by Joteta hanbok shop.
