School uniform culture and uniform experiences

Most middle and high schools have uniforms, while most elementary schools do not. Each school decides whether to have a uniform and what it looks like, so some secondary schools have none. Designs differ from school to school even in the same neighborhood, and people can often tell which school a student attends by the uniform.

Dongbok is the winter uniform and habok is the summer uniform. The winter version usually includes a blazer, long-sleeved shirt and heavier fabrics, while the summer one has short-sleeved shirts and lighter materials. Each school sets the changeover dates, and some let students choose either during the transition season.

Saenghwalbok is school-designated casual wear designed to be more comfortable than the formal uniform, often in the form of T-shirts, hoodies and easy trousers. Because it is practical and easy to care for, more schools now use it alongside or instead of the formal uniform. Rules on when to wear it vary by school.

On days with physical education class, some students find changing a hassle, so they come to school in gym clothes or keep them on all day. Comfort and ease of movement are also reasons. When gym clothes may be worn depends on school rules, and some schools allow them for the commute too.

Each school decides its uniform design, and when changing it, schools often gather opinions from students and parents. Designs typically feature the school's colors or crest, and more schools are now updating uniforms with comfort and ease of movement in mind. The exact process depends on the school and the regional education office.

Yes. In the early 1980s, uniforms and hairstyle rules for middle and high school students were liberalized, and many schools dropped uniforms. From the mid-1980s, schools were allowed to reintroduce uniforms at their own discretion, leading to today's situation where most schools have them. It is a nostalgic memory for the generation who lived through it.

In many areas, local governments or education offices run programs that support new middle and high school students in getting their uniforms. Eligibility and how support is given differ by region and can change. If you live in Korea and have children starting school, check with the school and the local education office.

In the past, many schools had students sew name tags onto their uniforms. More recently, to protect students' personal information, a growing number of schools use detachable tags or let students hide them outside school. Name tag rules vary from school to school.

There is a culture of taking in uniform skirts or trousers for a slimmer fit, and shops that alter uniforms are common. Many schools, however, have rules limiting alterations that make uniforms too short or tight. Since the limits vary by school, it is a frequent topic of discussion between students and schools.

In winter many students wear long padded coats over their uniforms, so you will often see groups in similar parkas on the way to and from school. Some schools have a designated coat, and others restrict outerwear colors or types. Most students take their coats off inside the classroom.

There is a custom of passing outgrown or graduated students' uniforms down to younger students, and some schools or local communities hold uniform-sharing markets. Uniforms are also bought and sold secondhand. These practices have become a way to use uniforms longer and ease costs.

On graduation day it is common to wear the uniform, hold a bouquet and take photos with friends and family. In the past, rowdy after-parties that involved tearing uniforms or throwing flour caused problems, but schools and society have largely stamped them out. Since it is the last day in uniform, many find it meaningful.

Yes, some rental shops near amusement parks and tourist spots offer school uniform rentals. They are popular with travelers who want photos dressed like students in Korean dramas. The outfits are made for the experience rather than being real school uniforms, so check each shop for rental conditions and availability.

Confirm the rental duration, where to return it, and whether ID or a deposit is required. Sizes are approximate, so try it on, and ask whether accessories like ties, ribbons or bags are included. There may be charges for stains or damage, so reading the shop's rules beforehand gives peace of mind.

In Korea, adult friends sometimes wear school uniforms to amusement parks as a fun way to relive their school days. The point is to dress alike and take photos, so it is popular among couples and groups of friends. It is a common sight at amusement parks, so few people will find it odd.

No. Korean schools often restrict outsiders for student safety, and entering without permission can cause trouble. Take your uniform photos at amusement parks, parks or tourist spots, and avoid photographing school buildings or students without permission. Respecting students' privacy matters.

No, Korean universities have no uniforms and students dress freely. There is, however, a culture of ordering group jackets printed with the department or club name, which you will often see on campus. Apart from graduation gowns, there is no set dress code for entrance or graduation ceremonies either.

New students usually buy uniforms through a group purchase arranged by the school or at a designated uniform shop. Some schools run a system where they select a supplier to manage quality and cost. The purchasing method is announced in the school's notice before enrollment.

Some schools use different colors for name tags, ties, ribbons or gym clothes to distinguish grade levels. A common approach is for each entering class to keep its color until graduation. Not every school does this, and the method varies from school to school.

Foreign and exchange students at regular Korean middle and high schools generally wear the same uniform as everyone else, and the school will explain how and when to get one. International and foreign schools may have their own uniform rules or none at all, so check with the school.