[K-drama Fashion] 5 Iconic Actors Who Nailed Traditional Korean Fashion VS Modern Suit Look

K-dramas set in historical periods—known as 'Sa-geuk'—aren’t just about court intrigue and sword fights. They also offer a visual feast through elegant hanbok(traditional clothes), detailed hairpieces, royal robes, and intricate accessories. Each character’s outfit tells its own story—of status, personality, and era.

From romantic robes to fierce warrior gear, let’s explore how sageuk fashion brings history to life through some of the genre’s most iconic dramas and stars.

Unlike the modern-day outfits actors usually wear, historical dramas bring out a whole new side of their charm through bold, colorful styling. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic sageuk fashion moments in K-drama history.

As King Jeongjo, Junho captured hearts in vibrant royal robes with embroidered details and classic gonryongpo (dragon robe). His look conveyed both dignity and deep emotion—a blend of power and vulnerability.

Lee Junho established his presence in sageuk with undeniable charisma—but give him a suit, and the spotlight still finds him. Effortlessly elegant, no matter the era.

2. Yook Sung-jae –The Haunted Palace

Yook Sung-jae takes on the dual roles of Yoon Gap and Kang Chul in the drama. Yoon Gap is a royal inspector during the Joseon era, but his fate is thrown into chaos when he's possessed by the modern soul of Kang Chul.

Yook brings his own flair to the character, wearing bright traditional hanbok with ease—and his performance, full of contrast and charm, stirs up viewers’ emotions like a perfectly mixed bowl of bibimbap.

Even without bold colors, Yook Sung-jae pulled off the classic black suit look with effortless style and confidence.

3. Chu Young-woo –The Tale of Lady Ok

In his first historical drama role, Chu Young-woo turned heads with his “gat-perfect” visuals—earning major attention for his striking presence in traditional attire. Already admired for his warm visuals, Chu showed a new side of his charm by fully embracing the elegance of hanbok.

His poetic character pairs well with soft-toned hanbok and refined silhouettes. Muted palettes and minimalist accessories make him the perfect romantic lead for a period drama.

Of course, his real-life suit fit was more than enough to make hearts flutter.

As a time-traveling warrior from Goryeo, Lee Min-ho wore custom battle armor with traditional motifs—mixing fantasy with historical authenticity. A bold, action-hero aesthetic wrapped in ancient design.

Set in the Goryeo dynasty rather than the more commonly depicted Joseon era, Lee Min-ho stood out with his striking long hairstyle, adding to the drama’s fantasy-warrior charm.

5. Ju Ji-hoon – Kingdom

Traditional meets thrilling horror—with style. Ju-Ji-hoon's look in Kingdom blends classic royal attire with a gritty, survival-driven edge. Regal yet raw, his costume stands out in a world overrun by zombies. Dark tones, heavy fabrics, and tension-filled tailoring.

In Kingdom, which is set in the Joseon dynasty, traditional headwear known as 'gat'—worn by Ju Ji-hoon and other male actors—gained global attention for its distinctive style. Ju Ji-hoon especially stood out with his striking variety of gat looks throughout the series.

Maybe it’s no surprise that Ju Ji-hoon shines so effortlessly in historical drama fashion—after all, he started as a model. From traditional robes to tailored suits, his silhouette is always flawless.

From dreamy princes to armored warriors, sageuk fashion is a journey through time, emotion, and cultural depth. Which style speaks to you the most?

Which look draws you in more—the rich, intricate styling of historical dramas with their flowing hanbok and royal robes, or the sharp sophistication of a perfectly tailored modern suit? Each offers a different kind of allure. So, what's your pick?

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