Getting a Plus-Size Custom Modern Hanbok in Seoul, South Korea
The Goeun Life Hanbok Storefront Insadong
If you’re plus-sized you may know how isolating it can be to not participate in experiences when you are traveling because of your size. This holds especially true for experiences that include clothes shopping or clothing rentals. In Seoul, clothing rentals are a popular activity for visitors who want to dress up in traditional Korean hanbok, but for many years, plus-size travelers in Korea had very limited options.
Thankfully, times are changing. Today, more shops and rental businesses are becoming size-inclusive in Seoul, offering custom and extended sizing. We wanted to share our own experience getting a plus-size custom modern hanbok—a travel highlight that blended tradition, style, and inclusivity.
What Is a Modern Hanbok?
Hanbok is the traditional clothing of Korea, often worn on special occasions, but in recent years younger generations have created the “life hanbok”—modernized pieces that combine traditional silhouettes with chic, everyday fashion. Think of flowy skirts, lightweight tops, and updated designs that can be worn casually or styled up for photoshoots.
Finding a Plus-Size Hanbok Shop in Seoul
While many designers in Seoul’s Insadong neighborhood don’t offer size-inclusive hanboks, we found a true gem: The Goeun, located at the very top of Insadong Cultural Street, near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
The Goeun is a small boutique shop owned by a Korean designer who lived abroad in the U.S. His store is packed floor to ceiling with gorgeous dresses, coats, skirts, and tops that merge traditional hanbok elements with modern fashion.
The skirts in particular are stunning—layered, lightweight, and as delicate as flower petals.
Plus-Size Custom Hanbok at The Goeun
Most of the ready-to-wear hanbok pieces in-store range from XS to about XL. But what makes The Goeun special is that they offer custom hanbok for plus-size customers, made to your exact measurements.
One of our writers, a size 24 at 5’6”, ordered a two-piece modern hanbok dress, a coat, and a skirt. The pieces were delivered in just about a week (some custom orders have been ready in as little as four days!).
All items are handmade in Korea with careful attention to detail. Prices range from about 70,000 KRW to 300,000 KRW (most dresses start around 170,000 KRW). Discounts are often available if you purchase multiple pieces.
Some of the many designs for a plus-size custom hanbok Seoul at The Goeun
Why The Goeun Stands Out
One of the few shops in Seoul offering plus-size hanbok options.
Custom sizing available, even beyond US size 24.
Quick turnaround (4–7 days for a custom order).
Designs that blend traditional Korean clothing with modern fashion.
Internationally minded designer who understands inclusivity.
If you’re visiting Seoul and want to invest in a timeless, fashion-forward piece that celebrates Korean culture, we can’t recommend The Goeun enough. They are pioneers in offering size-inclusive hanboks in Seoul—a rarity when so many vendors overlook plus-size customers.
Final Thoughts: A Plus-Size Friendly Hanbok Experience in Seoul
Buying a custom hanbok in Korea is more than just shopping—it’s an experience that ties you to Korean culture and tradition. For plus-size travelers, The Goeun provides not only beautiful clothing but also a welcoming and inclusive shopping environment.
Be sure to stop by The Goeun on Insadong Cultural Street during your trip to Seoul.
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno District, THE GOEUN (더고은생활한복) 1층 first floor
Website: https://thegoeun.co.kr/
Instagram: @verygoeun
