By Honorary Reporter Thu Zar Win Lwin from Myanmar

This is a group photo taken after the Oct. 4 Hanbok fashion show in Ankara, Turkey. (Korean Culture Center in Turkey)

Honorary Reporter Rumeysa Zeynep Yildrim from Turkey on Oct. 4 modeled in a Hanbok fashion show to mark Korea's National Foundation Day at the Sheraton Ankara Hotel and Convention Center. Having worked together on an article about Korean restaurants abroad, we became friends through Instagram after our collaboration though we have yet to meet in person.

I was surprised to see her wearing Hanbok at the show and wanted to ask her about the event and her experience there. The following are excerpts from the Nov. 12 interview via online chat.

Honorary Reporter Rumeysa Zeynep Yildirim from Turkey on Oct. 4 takes part in a Hanbok fashion show in Ankara, Turkey. (Rumeysa Zeynep Yildirim)

Briefly introduce yourself.

My name is Rumeysa Zeynep Yildirim, 22, from Turkey. I've been interested in Korea for a long time and volunteer at Korean events whenever I can. I'm lucky to have a Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in my city so that I can participate -- and even volunteer -- in many Korean events like festivals for traditional games and Korean films and a K-pop dance competition. The most interesting activity was when I modeled at the last event.

Is this the first time for Turkey to host a fashion show for traditional Korean clothing?

The show was specifically held to mark Korea's National Foundation Day and debuted in Istanbul last year. This year, the event presented the creations of Korean designer Lee Seo-youn with Turkish models.

The fashion show presented the creations of Korean designer Lee Seo-youn with Turkish models. (Korean Culture Center in Turkey)

How was your modeling experience?

I had worn Hanbok a few times before but this was the first time I wore it with such detail and all its parts. Hanbok is gorgeous and I felt like a princess from a Korean dynasty when wearing it. Like a confident Korean queen, I walked calmly and confidently on the runway, something I had to practice many times before the show.

I learned that Hanbok has detailed pieces, is difficult to put on alone and can be adapted in a variety of styles.

What was your impression of the show?

The event invitation was only for Korean War veterans, foreign ambassadors and government officials. I found it very exciting to be in a show with such VIPs. The show started with the playing of the national anthems of both countries, followed by Korean artists performing traditional songs and dance. 

The fashion show started with the playing of a traditional Korean instrument and featured a range of magnificent outfits. The beautiful atmosphere attracted close attention from the audience.

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.