You don’t want to wear a leggings on the streets in Korea unless you wanna be on the spot. If you happen to wear a leggings at work or school, everyone will probably stare at you bluntly and might think your outfit is inappropriate. In many Koreans’ point of view, leggings is a clothes you wear at the gym, not in any other places. (Perspectives toward leggings are slowly changing among younger generations.)
WHY?
1. People consider a leggings a bit erotic because its tightness emphasizes some of the body parts. (hips, legs, etc.).
And some women are reluctant and worried to wear leggings because of their “Y-zone” and hips being too explicit. “Y-zone” is a Korean slang indicating women’s pelvic area (because its shape looks like “Y”).
Korean sportswear brands use it as a marketing point: “This leggings doesn’t emphasize your Y-zone.”
A product page of Andar explaining how their leggings can cover your “Y-zone.”
2. In older generation’s point of view, a leggings is just an underwear (long johns).
You know that Korea gets really cold in winter. So many Koreans wear these to survive Korea’s freezing cold winter. If you look at it closely, doesn’t it look like a legging..?????
Underwear ad of BYC
Yet many Koreans do wear leggings. At the gym, you’ll see many people wearing a tight tank top with a leggings so that they can examine how the muscles move. You can often see people wearing leggings even on a normal basis, but with a long top that covers your hips and “Y-zone.”
A common way to wear leggings in Korea: with a long top that covers
your hips and “Y-zone.”
Many activewear brands in Korea make effort in changing people’s perspectives of leggings as daily clothes that you can easily wear not just when you are working out, but even when you are going out to somewhere else!
andar and XEXYMIX are Korean brands that sell daily activewear.
Here’s more tips on “How To Wear” in Korea.
If you are a woman planning to visit Korea,
you don’t want to wear a tank top (spaghetti strap) with exposed chest, run only wearing a sports bra, or not wear a bra. You’ll probably get so much attention. (But interestingly, many Koreans are fine with wearing mini skirts and short shorts.)
If you are a man planning to visit Korea,
you don’t want to run shirtless.
It seems like Koreans are more strict with upper body part!????But culture is continuously changing and younger generations are more open to revealing clothes.
????Today’s Discussion for UoH friends????
● Please share tips on “How To Wear”
in your country.
FAQs
You don't want to wear a leggings on the streets in Korea unless you wanna be on the spot. If you happen to wear a leggings at work or school, everyone will probably stare at you bluntly and might think your outfit is inappropriate.
Do people wear athleisure in Korea? ›
Characterized by sleek designs, innovative fabrics, and attention to detail, Korean athleisure brands have captured the imagination of fitness enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals alike.
Can you wear a crop top in Korea? ›
Colorful crop tops are a fool-proof summer staple for every country, and South Korea is no exception.
Can girls wear trousers in Korean school? ›
Korean school uniforms based on gender
Typically, female students will wear skirts, but they do have the option of wearing pants, as well. Male students wear pants, and their school uniforms look quite similar to how an office worker may dress for a day of work. A tie is also a common uniform attire.
Are leggings considered inappropriate? ›
Leggings are often considered inappropriate for dress codes because they are form-fitting and reveal the shape of the legs and buttocks. This can be distracting and unprofessional in certain settings, such as the workplace or a school environment.
Is it acceptable to wear leggings? ›
Leggings are often thin compared to pants like jeans or slacks, which makes them slightly more questionable. Yet while leggings may not be considered part of the professional attire wardrobe, they can still be professional.
Can I wear sweatpants in Korea? ›
If you go out wearing sweat pants or a sloppy outfit Koreans will think that you have just about given up on life. DO take the extra time to put on something nice. For girls, don't wear low cut shirts or expose your shoulders. This is considered very provocative.
Do Koreans wear baggy clothes? ›
Baggy Slacks: Korean men like to wear wide-legged slacks in summer. For a smarter look, they pair them with plaid South Korean Jackets and t-shirts. Baggy Hoodies: Baggy zipped, and pullover hoodies are the best options to layer in minimal clothes.
What is the clothing style in Korea? ›
Hanbok is the traditional Korean attire made with these materials, typically featuring graceful lines and forms with a serene aura.
Can you have long hair in South Korea? ›
South Korea
There are no specific definitions of acceptable hair length, and violators were often taken to police stations and had their hair cut against their will.
Dress modestly
Women should leave low-cut shirts at home but should feel comfortable showing as much leg as they like. Men's shorts should be hemmed above the knee and end at their fingertips. It's also a good idea to bring a shawl or light jacket to cover your shoulders if you're wearing a sleeveless top.
Can you wear makeup to a Korean school? ›
They'll check each student for the following: Isn't wearing any 악세사리 (aksesari) or “accessories,” including invisible plastic earrings. Isn't wearing any 화장 (hwajang) or “makeup,” including whitening sunscreen. Is wearing hair style that's in line with the school rules.
Can Korean students dye their hair? ›
One more rule students follow in South Korea is regarding the student's hairstyle. The school will decide which hairstyle to do. However, nowadays, students are allowed to do many different hairstyles. Girls can dye their hair, curl their hair, and untie their hair.
What does Yaja mean in Korean? ›
This is called "yaja", which literally means "evening self-study". They do not need to go home to eat dinner since most schools provide paid dinner for students.
Can you wear leggings in Japan? ›
Conclusion: In conclusion, wearing leggings in Japan is not only acceptable but embraced as a comfortable, stylish, and versatile choice. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city life or enjoying the tranquility of traditional settings, leggings offer a practical and fashionable option for all occasions.
Can girls wear jeans in North Korea? ›
Can you wear jeans in North Korea? Due to North Korea's intolerance of Western ideals and fashion, blue jeans are not allowed to be worn by anyone.
Can you cross your legs in Korea? ›
This is seen as impolite or even as a challenge. Do not cross your legs or stretch your legs out straight in front of you. Keep your feet on the floor, never on a desk or chair. Always pass and receive objects with your right hand (supported by the left hand at the wrist or forearm) or with two hands.
Where can you wear leggings? ›
Leggings are one of the most versatile wardrobe essentials. They can be worn so many ways, and they're also incredibly comfortable. Few closet staples can be made as effortlessly stylish in so many settings: the gym, the office, the bar and beyond!
