Hanbok Humiliations

I was psychologically scarred as a young child when my mother would take me to the underwear department of Kmart or Masons and procede to hold up various and sundry undergarments to spot check for size. Those memories came crashing back as my friend Mirim helped me recently with a particular article of clothing. I got to stand and watch (and blush) while others talked about me, discussed my height and size, picked out an outfit for me and then DRESSED me. It was borderline humiliating, as I became quite a spectacle at the Gwang-jang Shijang (shijang is market).

At least in Kmart I had racks of clothing, behind which I could make feeble attempts to hide my shame. In Korea's open air markets, there are no such racks - just rows of shopkeepers and a flow of folks passing by with nothing to do but watch the Migook saram (American) get dressed like a child. During this adventure into the depths of my mortification, you should have heard the Korean words flying. Seems my height was a little bit of a problem, but they found a skirt that was suitable. The next major discussion amongst Mirim, the shopkeeper AND the shopkeeper next door concerned finding a short jacket that would be *ahem* big enough around. It seems some Koreans are apt to talk with their hands - pointing and gesturing a bit wildly.......while everyone watches. What a night.

After the joy of trying on clothes in an open market, here is what I brought home:

My own Korean Hanbok.

(Mirim gave me the traditional hairdo)

Here I am in all my Korean graciousness and civility


NOT!

I don't know what is under a Kilt,
But I do know what is under a hanbok!!