Seoul's Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung Palace have become the center of criticism following the circulation of photos featuring Chinese tourists dressed in traditional emperor costumes.
Recently, social media platforms, including Threads, have seen a surge in posts titled 'People Met at Gwanghwamun,' showcasing a Chinese tourist in emperor-style attire near Gyeongbokgung.
The images have sparked shock and debate as they spread across various online communities. Some users shared similar sightings, recounting their experiences.
One user noted, "According to reports from other communities, dozens of Chinese tourists inside Gyeongbokgung were seen shouting slogans under the guidance of a leader, prompting officials to intervene." They argued for the need to implement comprehensive measures regarding Chinese tourists, especially in light of the recent visa-free entry policy.
Concerns have also been raised about the historical context of Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, in relation to China's portrayal of it. Another user commented, "China has distorted the history of Hanbok, making the situation more sensitive. There is a need to install Chinese-language signs and explanations throughout Gyeongbokgung to inform Chinese tourists of the historical context."
Additionally, there are fears that tourists might exploit the free admission policy for wearing Hanbok, taking photos in Chinese-style costumes, and posting them on Chinese social media, potentially leading to claims that Hanbok and Hanfu are the same cultural heritage, which could ignite further historical disputes.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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