China claims "'Hongcheon-gi' Hanbok plagiarized Ming Dynasty costumes"... Seok Kyung-deok says "Baseless claim crosses the line"

Seokyeongdeok "A Sense of Crisis Due to Hallyu... An Expression of Misguided Patriotism"

Chinese netizens claimed that the hanbok in the SBS drama "Hong Cheon Gi" plagiarized Ming Dynasty costumes, but Professor Seo Kyung-deok of Sungshin Women's University has refuted this.
/Photo by "Hong Cheon Gi" official website

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Seohyun] Professor Seokyungdeok of Sungshin Women's University criticized Chinese netizens' claims of plagiarism of Ming Dynasty costumes as "pathetic."

On the 23rd, Professor Seokyungdeok stated on his Facebook, "Chinese netizens are claiming that the costumes and props in the SBS drama 'Hong Cheon Gi' plagiarize Chinese culture," and pointed out, "They are crossing the line with unreasonable claims."

He explained, "(Chinese netizens) say that the hanbok worn by the drama's lead actress Kim Yoo-jung plagiarizes Ming Dynasty hanbok, and that all the costumes and props are copied directly from the Chinese drama 'Liu Li Mei Ren Sha' (Glass Beauty's Life)." He added, "Especially some local online media continue these claims, making the situation truly absurd."

He continued, "Currently, as Korea's traditional culture and popular culture are gaining attention worldwide, China feels a sense of crisis, which manifests as a misguided form of patriotism," and said, "With online video services (OTT) allowing global viewers to watch Korean dramas and movies, whereas in the past Westerners recognized China as the center of Asian culture, now they recognize Korea. It seems Chinese netizens are genuinely afraid of the Korean Wave."

He then emphasized, "At times like this, we must not respond emotionally but rather 'reverse-utilize' China's Northeast Project," and added, "This opportunity should be used as a good chance to confidently promote hanbok to the world. It is time to show that there is always someone better than the one running."