By Honorary Reporter Fotini Chatzoudi from Greece

Photos = Nariman Talaal Salama

Hanbok is traditional Korean clothing. Until early the 20th century, Koreans wore Hanbok daily, but today, it is usually worn on special occasions. Outside of Korea, few stores sell the costumes, but in Egypt, a young woman designs and makes her own Hanbok after being wowed by the outfits featured in the historical K-drama "Jewel in the Palace." 

The following are excerpts from an online interview with Nariman Talaal Salama.

Tell us about yourself.
My name is Nariman Talaal Salama, 20. Hanbok changed my life for the better and helped me discover my talent. Wearing it is great but making it creates another kind of joy hard to experience.

What motivated you to make Hanbok?

When I was little, I loved Korea. I could watch K-dramas all day, especially "Jewel in the Palace," and watching the latter made me wonder what the clothes were. I tried in vain to find a place in my country that sells Hanbok. When I turned 18, I started learning Korean and met a Korean woman visiting the Pyramids of Giza. I told her that I loved Korea and hoped to be a Hanbok designer. 

To my surprise, she was a fashion designer and advised me to study Hanbok design. She got me thinking of applying for a scholarship to study in Korea or learning to design Hanbok at home. Luckily, I had the chance to learn how to make Hanbok for a year. I made one outfit for myself and felt great. I showed my family the Hanbok I made, and they encouraged me. I took part in contests and actively posted comments on social media about Hanbok.

Do you have a style preference when making Hanbok?

My preference is modern as it fits our times, but the one I made was traditional. I can wear it to school or work because it's not big but still attractive. It's like a dress but Korean style.

What type of fabric and patterns did you use?
I chose an Argentine fabric with a pink color. I bought the patterns from a clothing accessories shop and sewed them on the jeogori (jacket).

How does Hanbok figure into your career plans?
I want to work as a Hanbok designer in Egypt and share Korean culture and traditions. I also want to collaborate with a Hanbok design company in Korea.

kalhong617@korea.kr 

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.