A Taste of Korea at the Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

                                          Gorgeous Christmas Tree at Menara Hap Seng Mall

I love Korean culture and dramas and wanted to find a place in Kuala Lumpur to experience them fully. After researching, I found the Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur at Menara Hap Seng Mall. 

They offer cooking classes, cultural workshops, and exhibitions, which are excellent opportunities to explore and learn more about Korea.

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur @ Menara Hap Seng (Formerly Plaza MUI)

When we finally got there, I was captivated by their display window. It featured an array of relics, artifacts, and textiles that spoke volumes about Korean history in general.    

For instance, the king wore this piece of hanbok, known as Hongryongpo, as he went about daily activities. If you're a fan of K-dramas, you might remember that in Sungkyunkwan Scandal, King Jeongjo wore the same thing.   

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

On the other side of the display window was a gorgeous woman's hanbok or chima jeogori, which looked like it was made for royalty. The ensemble featured jeogori, a blouse shirt or jacket, and chima, a wrap-around skirt usually worn completely. 

                                                        Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

During the Three Kingdoms (57 AD-668 AD) and Goryeo (935 AD) periods, clothing and jewelry could determine an individual's social status. Members of the royal family, aristocrats, and court officials wore clothes made of expensive materials such as silk and satin in bright colors.

On the other hand, commoners wore plain and undyed clothes made of cheap materials such as hemp, ramie, or cotton. Only during the Joseon period (1392-1897) was the general public allowed to wear more colorful clothing in their everyday lives, which brought joy to the masses.

                                                             

                                                             

                        Evolution of Hanbok through Time @ Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

Headdresses, too, were symbols of social class and marital status. The hat on the left is called ikseongwan, and it was worn as a crown by the king during the Joseon period.

The hat on the right is a headgear commonly worn by Joseon court officials. It can be seen in Yi Myeong-gi's 1792 portrait of Chae Jegong in black danryeongpo. 

FUN FACT: 

Chae Jegong was a former minister and magistrate responsible for overseeing the completion of Hwaseong Fortress.

Portrait of Chae Jegong

Korea Plaza KL also had a pair of Taesahye or men's shoes made from animal skin with scroll decoration.

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

The display window looked chic and elegant, showcasing various Korean porcelain pieces.

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

And what is Korean culture without a glimpse of its national treasures?

Miniatures at Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

Cheomseongdae Observatory, the 31st national treasure of Korea, is on the left, while Namdaemun (Sungnyemun), the 1st national treasure of Korea, is on the right. 

Wouldn't it be great to see these structures up close?

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

It was unfortunate that Korea Plaza KL was closed upon our arrival, leaving me disappointed after only being able to peek through the windows.

                                                              

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

Imagine trying on one of the beautiful complimentary hanboks during my next visit. Doesn't that sound amazing? 

Courtesy of Korea Plaza KL

Can you imagine me posing in front of these Korean dishes?

 Courtesy of Korea Plaza KL

In the popular Korean drama Sweet 18, I vividly recall witnessing Han Ji-hye's character engaging in the traditional practice of cleaning these objects, specifically for the grand Chusok festival. 

Chusok is a significant holiday in Korea, during which families come together to pay respect to their ancestors and show gratitude for their blessings.

 Courtesy of Korea Plaza KL

Did you know that at the Korea Plaza KL, you can find traditional Korean instruments such as the gayageum? This zither-like string instrument has 12 strings and has been featured in popular K-dramas such as Heartstrings and Queen In Hyun's Man. 

Indeed, exploring musical instruments' rich history and cultural significance broadens one's appreciation for music and perspectives. 

                               Courtesy of Korea Plaza KL

I wish I could do this pose too! It looks like so much fun!

                                      Courtesy of Korea Plaza KL
                                                        

Discover an extraordinary experience by immersing yourself in Korean culture. Don't let this opportunity slip away! 

Be sure to check out their Facebook page before you go to get the most out of your visit. 

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!                                          

Korea Plaza Kuala Lumpur

Address:

Ground Floor, Menara Hap Seng

Jalan P.Ramlee 50250 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Operating Hours:

Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm

Every Second & Fourth Saturday, 10am-5pm

Closed on Malaysian public holidays

Phone No.:

03-2072 2515

Fax: 

03-2072 3552

Email:

klkoreaplaza@gmail.com

Facebook

How to go to Menara Hap Seng:

Board the KL monorail and alight at Jalan Sultan Ismail station. 

Menara Hap Seng is just a 5 to 10-minute walk from the station.