An Investigation into the Costume Artifacts in Gangneung City Museums

This study aimed to investigate and analyze the current state of costume artifacts held in museums in the Gangneung area, providing empirical foundational data on the region’s traditional costume culture. Due to its geographical characteristics, Gangneung has developed a unique culture, and its costume heritage is regarded as an important element reflecting the region’s identity and cultural legacy. The survey targeted 18 public, private, and university museums located in Gangneung. Among them, seven institutions were found to hold a total of 1,112 costume-related artifacts. The institution with the most extensive collection was the Ojukheon Municipal Museum, which held 625 items—over half of the total. The Daegwallyeong Museum followed with 182 items, while the Museum at the Seongyojang House and the Museum of Oriental Embroidery also possessed more than 80 items each, indicating a significant level of costume-related material. In contrast, the National Gangneung-Wonju University Museum and the Catholic Kwandong University Museum, despite being university museums, held relatively small numbers of artifacts. The Heo Gyun and Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Park had only two costume-related paintings, reflecting a minimal collection. A systematic investigation of costume artifacts is not merely a revisiting of the past; it contributes to reaffirming regional cultural identity and uncovering the value of these artifacts as cultural resources that can be utilized in contemporary society. Furthermore, this study can serve as a practical foundation for the future development of costume design based on Gangneung’s traditional attire and for the creation of cultural content tied to regional branding. Ultimately, it may serve as a cultural bridge, connecting the past with the future, and provide a meaningful starting point for exploring new possibilities in regionally based studies.