In this story
Eric gets the same text every January, usually from someone whose child just outgrew a Seollal 한복. The photo shows a red wine stain on white silk, or a hem stepped through, or a set stuffed into a plastic bin under a bed. The answer is almost always simpler than the panic suggests. Silk wants to be treated like the plant fiber it is not.
A well-kept hanbok lasts decades. Here is what Eric tells customers to do the week after the event, the month after that, and every year the piece sits waiting for the next holiday. Cleaning, folding, storage. Nothing fancy, nothing expensive, all of it worth the ten minutes.
Linen and cotton hanbok
Follow the care instructions for that specific piece. Some everyday cotton or linen sets can be washed, but only when their instructions allow it; follow their temperature and drying instructions exactly. If instructions are missing or unclear, ask the seller for written guidance before cleaning. See our care guide.
Check the care instructions before ironing or steaming any piece.
The chima skirt
The full chima is the trickiest part of any hanbok to store. It is essentially a wide tube of fabric attached to a sash. Folded incorrectly, the chima creases along lines that are visible the next time you wear it.
The traditional method is to fold the chima into thirds lengthwise, then roll it from the hem upward. The roll prevents sharp creases. If you have shelf space, hang it from the waist sash on a wide, padded hanger instead.
The jeogori jacket
Fold the jeogori with the sleeves crossed in front, then fold in thirds along the long axis. Keep the goreum (front tie) loose, not tied; the knot leaves a crease if pressed flat for long.
Embroidery and beadwork
If your hanbok has hand embroidery, beadwork, or gold thread, treat the embroidered area like glass. Never iron directly on it, and check the care instructions before pressing the piece at all. Store the piece flat, not folded across the embroidery.
Once a year
Take your hanbok out once a year and air it for a few hours. This prevents the fold lines from setting permanently and lets any humidity dissipate. Refold along different lines if possible.
If something goes wrong
If a seam splits, a button pops, or a panel tears, ask Eric about a repair for your piece. Hanbok seam construction is forgiving; most damage is fixable. Send him a photo.
Talk to Eric
Looking for authentic hanbok for your occasion? Eric at The Korean In Me works with each customer, selects pieces in Seoul through authorized Korean suppliers and makers, and inspects each piece in San Mateo. Send Eric a message or call or text Eric.