Loungewear and sleepwear culture

Yes. In Korea you remove your shoes at the entrance before stepping inside. Because of the ondol tradition of heating homes through the floor, sitting and lying on the floor is common, so keeping floors clean became part of the culture. Guests follow the same custom.

Yes. Many Koreans take off their outdoor clothes and change into comfortable loungewear as soon as they get home. Part of the reason is not wanting to sit on the bed or floor in clothes worn outside. So many people own homewear separate from their pajamas.

'Churining' is a common Korean word for a training suit, meaning a matching athletic top and bottoms. People often wear it at home or for quick trips around the neighborhood. Training suits have become more stylish recently, and many are now worn as outdoor clothing too.

'Refrigerator pants' are loose summer trousers made of thin fabric that feels cool to the touch. They do not cling to the skin and let air through, so people wear them at home and around the neighborhood during Korea's hot, humid summers. You can find them in many patterns at markets and online.

Floral work pants were originally comfortable trousers for farm and housework, but their retro charm and comfort turned them into a playful fashion item for young people too. The elastic waist is comfortable and the fabric breathes well. Market-bought pairs have even gone viral on social media.

In winter, many people wear soft, warm pajamas made of microfiber or brushed fleece. Because floor heating often keeps homes warm, though, very thick pajamas can feel too hot. It is best to choose fabrics based on how warm your home is.

Many people go barefoot or in socks at home, but some households use indoor slippers when floors are cold or to reduce noise for downstairs neighbors. Separate waterproof slippers are often kept for the bathroom and balcony. When visiting someone's home, simply use the slippers your host offers.

With family or close friends, comfortable loungewear is usually fine. When first-time guests or elders visit, many people change into neater clothes. Likewise, when you visit someone's home, it is polite to wear something tidy rather than overly casual clothing.

For a quick run to a convenience store in your apartment complex or neighborhood, training suits or comfy loungewear are a common sight. Obvious pajamas can make some people uncomfortable, though, so throwing on a jacket is a safe choice. For busy districts or restaurants, change into regular clothes.

One-mile wear means clothing comfortable enough for home yet presentable enough to wear about a mile from your door. Neat training sets and knit sets that sit between loungewear and outerwear are typical examples. The term became more common as working from home increased.

For loungewear that touches your skin, soft, absorbent fabrics like cotton or modal are comfortable. Thin, breathable fabrics suit summer, while brushed fleece or knits suit winter. You will wash it often, so check the label to see whether it can go in the washing machine.

Yes. Pajamas and loungewear sets are given as housewarming, birthday or new-baby gifts in Korea, and some families buy matching sleepwear. If you are not sure of the size, choose a roomy fit or buy from a store that allows exchanges.

In the past, Koreans are said to have bought red long underwear for their parents with their first paycheck. It expressed the wish that parents stay warm in winter, and red was also thought to bring good fortune. Most people choose other gifts today, but the custom is still fondly remembered.

Some Korean hotels provide robes or pajamas, but it varies by property. Many guesthouses and budget stays do not, so it is wise to pack something comfortable. Check the accommodation's amenity list before booking if this matters to you. It is also worth checking whether toiletries and slippers are provided.

Yes. In Korea, where many people live in apartments, you can find slippers with thick, soft soles designed to muffle footsteps. Some households wear them out of consideration for downstairs neighbors, and many homes also lay noise-reducing floor mats. Such mats are also popular in homes with small children.

In homes with warm floor heating, many people wear short sleeves or light loungewear even in winter. Since people often sit or lie on the floor, very thick clothes can feel too hot. When heading outside, though, bring a warm coat because the temperature difference is large.

Korean summers are hot and humid, so thin cotton or linen pajamas that absorb sweat and dry quickly work well. Loose designs that do not cling are the most comfortable. If you sleep with the air conditioner on, light long sleeves that cover your stomach can help.

Many people wear comfortable loungewear but switch to a neat top for video meetings. Some deliberately change clothes to separate work time from rest time. Following your company's video-meeting etiquette is a good idea. Changing clothes can also help signal the start and end of the workday.

Loungewear and pajamas easily absorb sweat and skin oils, so washing them every few days is a good habit. In sweaty seasons like summer, washing more often is more hygienic. Washing methods differ by fabric, so check the care label.

When floors are chilly, many people wear thick, soft sleep socks or slipper socks. Because going shoeless indoors is the norm, there is a wide range of cozy sock products. Those with non-slip soles are safer on wooden floors. Many homes keep a basket of such socks near the door for guests.