A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
By Mam & I
Photo Credits: Moim Studio
Hair and Makeup: You Hye-kyung
Hanbok Sponsored by: The Hanbok
On Sunday, September 16, the stage of the 2018 Chuseok Grand Festival, hosted by the Korean Association of New Jersey at New Overpeck Park, was graced by young gentlemen and ladies adorned in vibrant hanbok. This event, namely the First Mam & I Children's Hanbok Fashion Show, was a special initiative by Mam & I to provide children with a unique opportunity to wear and showcase the traditional attire of hanbok in celebration of Korea's Chuseok. It was meticulously planned for the Korean community.
A total of 15 teams, comprising 24 children, selected through online registration and onsite evaluation, dazzled the stage with their charm and talent. From three-year-old participants to the eldest of five sisters aged twelve, the event was filled with enjoyment and emotion. We extend our applause and gratitude to the children of the first Mam & I Hanbok Fashion Show through this field sketch.
The inaugural Mam & I Children's Hanbok Fashion Show doubled as a selection event for the 2019 New Year’s cover model of Mam & I. Participants showcased their splendid walks on the runway and struck impressive poses in front of the audience. Judging criteria included the style of the hanbok, walking, and posing. Representatives from Mam & I, the Korean Association of New Jersey, Moim Studio, The Hanbok, and Tie the Knot Wedding House each cast a vote to select the child with the most impressive presence.
The first prize went to Lee Seo-yeon, who participated with her mother Seo Kyung-hee in the couple category. Their bright expressions, confident walking, and elegant yet impressive poses suited to the hanbok earned them high scores. Judges commented that each child brought a unique charm, such that all deserved first place. For the audience, watching beautifully dressed children celebrating traditional attire in a foreign land was profoundly moving.
The Mam & I Children's Fashion Show aimed to offer children the opportunity to engage with the Korean community and create memorable experiences on stage through fun events. Initially, participants registered on the online event page, followed by an orientation session on Thursday, September 6, at the BergenPac Cabaret Room. Here, participants practiced walking to background music, posed for profile pictures, and engaged in rehearsal activities.
A week before the event, children visited ‘The Hanbok’ to select their attire and practiced individually for their 1-2 minute performances. On the day of the event, they gathered early in the morning for rehearsals, turning this entire process into an extraordinary festive experience for the young participants.
