Videos of Chinese influencers walking around Gyeongbokgung Palace in hanfu, traditional Chinese attire, are stirring controversy on social media (SNS).
Seo Kyung-duk, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, posted related photos and videos on his social media on the 20th, saying, "I have received many tips from netizens."
Professor Seo said it is hard to take issue with Chinese people wearing their traditional attire at tourist spots in Korea, but noted that videos shot at Gyeongbokgung Palace could confuse foreign tourists.
He said, "Hanbok and hanfu are clearly different outfits, but foreigners may mistake hanfu for Korea's traditional attire," adding, "Posting videos on social media of people strutting around Gyeongbokgung in hanfu is an even bigger problem."
Previously, claims on Chinese online platforms that hanbok originated from hanfu have repeatedly sparked controversy. Some Chinese online marketplaces drew criticism for grouping hanbok and hanfu in the same category for sale.
Professor Seo emphasized, "This has not happened just once or twice at Gyeongbokgung Palace," adding, "People should observe global manners that respect other countries' history and culture."