(C) The Organizing Committee of the Korea Hanbok Model Contest
The Organizing Committee of the Korea Hanbok Model Contest (Chairman Samuel Chung) announced that the "6th France Hanbok Model Contest" was held successfully on the 7th at the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile in Paris, France.
Held during Paris Fashion Week, the event aimed to promote the beauty of Hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire, and select global models who best represent the garment. Out of 386 applicants, 105 advanced to the semifinals after fierce competition, with 42 finalists competing on the main stage. The final three winners will be officially invited to the grand finale of the Korea Hanbok Model Contest in South Korea.
The 2026 France Hanbok Model Contest, held to globalize Hanbok, commemorated the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. The event was hosted by the Korea Culture Association and sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, and the Hanbok Promotion Foundation. This year’s top honors went to Caruel Catherine (Grand Prize/Jin), Marmin Caroline (First Runner-up/Seon), and Binda Nsakala Blessing (Second Runner-up/Mi).
The organizing committee also prepared a meaningful ceremony by inviting the families of French war veterans and presenting them with Hanbok. They expressed deep gratitude for the sacrifice and service of the veterans who fought for South Korea, emphasizing that their dedication made it possible for Korean culture to be celebrated on the world stage today.
"It is very meaningful to demonstrate in France and across Europe that Hanbok is a world cultural heritage that looks beautiful on anyone, regardless of nationality or race," said Samuel Chung, President of the Korean Culture Association. "We will continue to strive for cultural diplomacy to widely share the value and charm of Korean culture centered around Hanbok."
Lee Wook-heon, Defense Attaché of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in France, added, "I sincerely congratulate the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and France. I look forward to further expanding continuous cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two nations."
Furthermore, the winners of the "2025 Korea Hanbok Model Contest," Kang Yeon-je (Grand Prize), Kwon Yeon-ju (First Runner-up), and Kim Su-yeon (Second Runner-up), adorned the stage alongside French models for the grand finale runway, receiving enthusiastic cheers and applause from the audience.
The Organizing Committee of the Korea Hanbok Model Contest is the only organization to hold a Hanbok model selection event overseas, establishing it as a representative Korean cultural event contributing to the global promotion of traditional culture.
Meanwhile, the French winners of this contest will be officially invited to the grand finale of the "2026 Korea Hanbok Model Contest" to be held at the INSPIRE Entertainment Resort on June 27. They will receive full support, including airfare, accommodation, protocol services, high-quality Hanbok, and professional hair and makeup, as they participate in activities to promote Korean culture.
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