Understanding Hanbok: The Difference Between Durumagi and Dapo

This post waswritten on February 16, 2024.

Hello, this is Risle.

Today, I'd like to talk about Hanbok.

Hanbok, Korea's traditional attire, is gaining a lot of attention,

but do you actually know the difference between durumagi and dabho when wearing Hanbok?

This time, let's take a closer look at durumagi and dabho.

Characteristics and Origin of Durumagi

Durumagi is the upper garment of Hanbok, and it was primarily worn by the upper class.

Durumagi has a shirt-like form and comes with a string that ties around the neck.

This string usually has metal decorations, giving it a luxurious feel and completing the durumagi's design.

The origin of durumagi can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty.

At that time, royalty and nobles primarily wore durumagi, while commoners usually wore simpler tops.

Over time, durumagi has evolved into various designs and materials.

​

Characteristics and Origin of Dabho

It's a unisex outer garment, a short-sleeved po (포), with short sleeves added and a long vest with side slits.

Dabho typically has short or no sleeves, so it's stylish to wear it with other Hanbok to show the sleeves layered underneath.

The origin of dabho can be seen from the Goryeo Dynasty to the Joseon Dynasty.

From the late Goryeo to the late Joseon periods, it was worn under the king and officials' mourning clothes or as an outer garment over the clothes of the yangban (scholar-officials).

Comparison of Durumagi and Dabho: Design Aspects

​
When comparing durumagi and dabho, each has its unique design and characteristics.

I'll explain it in an easy-to-understand way.

In common, durumagi and dabho are a type of po (포), and

it refers to a long garment that extends the length of the jeogori (jacket) to cover the knees.

To put it simply, both durumagi and dabho share the common characteristic of being long!

So, what are the differences?

Durumagi and dabho differ in the shape of their sleeves and slits.

Durumagi has long sleeves.

On the other hand, dabho has short sleeves added or no sleeves.

Also, while durumagi has no slits because the sides are closed,

dabho is characterized by having slits on both sides.

<Commonalities>

Both durumagi and dabho are long, reaching down to the knees.

<Difference 1 - Sleeves>

Durumagi: Has long sleeves.

Dabho: Has short sleeves added or no sleeves.

<Difference 2 - Slits>

Durumagi: Sides are closed. No slits.

Dabho: Sides are open. Has slits.

Correcting Misconceptions about Durumagi and Dabho

There are a few misconceptions about durumagi and dabho.

The most common misconception is that all long Hanbok outer garments are durumagi, but

as explained today, dabho is also long.

Just because it's knee-length, it doesn't automatically mean it's a durumagi!

The second common misconception is that durumagi and dabho are garments from a bygone era.

However, many people still enjoy wearing durumagi and dabho today,

and Risle is constantly developing new styles by reinterpreting dabho as a 'Korean robe'.

Furthermore, durumagi and dabho are not limited to a specific gender.

While traditionally known as primarily male attire, women are increasingly choosing to wear durumagi and dabho these days.

So, we've learned about durumagi and dabho!

These two garments are widely used in saengwhal hanbok (daily Hanbok) and gaeryang hanbok (modernized Hanbok), connecting our traditions and beauty.

Isn't it our shared responsibility to continue spreading and developing our beautiful culture through Hanbok?

Try on Hanbok and experience its beauty.

The Goryeo Celadon Dabho mentioned in this post is

offering a discount of up to 25% with a 2-week pre-order!

Only on the Risle homepage, from February 13th (Tue) to February 27th (Fri),

we're accepting pre-orders for the Goryeo Celadon Dabho series.

​

With a basic 15% discount and up to 25% off

with additional discounts based on the order quantity,

don't miss this opportunity if you're interested in the product!

​

​

▽ Risle Pre-order Page ▽