The possibility of establishing a “Hanbok Day” to honor the history and elegance of hanbok in California has emerged.
On August 14, the California Assembly announced its intention to introduce and vote on a resolution (ACR 110) aimed at officially recognizing ‘Hanbok Day’ in the state.
The resolution, spearheaded by Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, who represents California’s 67th Assembly District in Fullerton, Southern California, outlines the proposal to designate October 21 as an annual Hanbok Day.
The resolution underscores that thirty-six cities worldwide, including Abu Dhabi, Rome, Warsaw, São Paulo, and Budapest, commemorate Hanbok Day by embracing the cultural heritage and donning traditional hanbok attire. Furthermore, it acknowledges that the hanbok’s origins can be traced back to 2333 B.C.E. and that in 1996, the Republic of Korea officially declared October 21 as Hanbok Day.
“Through the recognition of Hanbok Day, Korean Americans aim to encourage citizens from all walks of life to participate in celebrating the magnificence of Korean culture,” remarked Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva. She further expressed hopes that Hanbok Day would join the ranks of other significant celebrations such as Kimchi Day and Hangul Day.
Once the resolution secures approval from the lower house, it will progress to the upper house and, pending the governor’s signature by the end of August, will be solidified as official legislation.
BY BRIAN CHOI [choi.inseong@koreadaily.com]
