Korean Sokchima Under-Skirt for Hanbok

In the long and elegant history of Korean fashion, the true beauty of the Hanbok lies not just in its vibrant colors and sweeping lines, but in the unseen foundation: the Sokchima. Literally meaning “inner skirt,” this garment evolved over centuries, reaching its characteristic voluminous form during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897). Unlike Western petticoats, the Sokchima was designed to create a distinct, dignified silhouette—a perfect circle of fabric that gracefully disguises the body’s form, emphasizing the aesthetic value of reserved beauty and modesty prized in Korean culture.

Historical records suggest that noblewomen often layered multiple Sokchima—sometimes up to five or six—to achieve maximum fullness, transforming the outer Chima into a breathtaking spectacle of fabric flow. The crisp, rustling sound of the starch-treated fabric as a lady walked was itself considered a beautiful, quiet melody. Today’s modern Sokchima captures this traditional volume while offering enhanced comfort and a simplified single-layer design. It ensures your Hanbok Chima stands away from the body, preventing the fabric from clinging and allowing the wearer to move with the same fluid, floating grace of a historical Korean noblewoman. It is an authentic piece of cultural artistry, elevating any Hanbok ensemble from a simple costume to a profound statement of Korean heritage.