Doljanchi (돌잔치) is a cherished Korean first-birthday celebration, where the birthday child often wears a traditional hanbok or a modern suit. For many parents, renting a suit for the occasion is a practical and cost-effective choice. This step-by-step guide explains how to rent a suit for doljanchi, from planning to pickup, with specific advice for parents in Korea.
1. Understand Doljanchi Suit Needs
Before renting, decide on the style. Doljanchi suits for boys typically include a jacket, trousers, a dress shirt, and a bow tie or necktie. Some parents also add a vest or suspenders. For girls, a suit or a dress is common, but this guide focuses on suits. The suit can be classic black, navy, or light gray, or a more festive color like burgundy or pastel blue.
Key items to rent:
- Jacket (single-breasted or double-breasted)
- Trousers (with adjustable waist for growing babies)
- Dress shirt (white or light blue)
- Bow tie or necktie
- Optional: vest, suspenders, pocket square, cufflinks
Most rental shops in Korea, such as Fotton Tuxedo, Mr. Suit, or Doljanchi Suit Rental, offer packages that include all these items.
2. Timing: When to Start Renting
Start the rental process at least 2–3 weeks before the doljanchi date. This allows time for fitting, alterations, and backup options. During peak seasons (spring and fall), many families celebrate doljanchi, so early booking is essential.
Typical timeline:
- 2–3 weeks before: Research shops, compare prices, and book an appointment.
- 1–2 weeks before: Visit the shop for fitting; bring the child to try on the suit.
- 3–5 days before: Pick up the suit (or have it delivered).
- Day of doljanchi: Dress the child; keep a backup outfit handy.
- 1–2 days after: Return the suit (check the rental period).
3. Choosing a Rental Shop
In Korea, rental shops specialize in children's suits for doljanchi. Popular options include:
- Fotton Tuxedo (multiple branches in Seoul and Busan) – known for quality and variety.
- Mr. Suit (online and offline) – affordable packages starting at ₩30,000–₩50,000.
- Doljanchi Suit Rental (online rental with nationwide delivery) – prices from ₩25,000 for a basic set.
- Local wedding/doljanchi rental shops – often found in neighborhoods with many event halls.
When choosing, consider:
- Distance from home (for fitting and return).
- Online reviews and photos.
- Package inclusions (shirt, tie, etc.).
- Alteration policy (free or paid).
- Deposit required (usually ₩10,000–₩50,000).
For more details on suit types, read our complete guide to tuxedos and suits in Korea.
4. Sizing and Fitting
Children grow quickly, so accurate measurements are crucial. Most rental shops have suits in standard sizes (e.g., 6–12 months, 12–18 months, 18–24 months). However, every child is different.
Steps for proper fitting:
- Measure the child: Chest, waist, hip, inseam, sleeve length, and shoulder width. Use a soft tape measure.
- Bring the child to the shop: Let them try on the suit. Check for comfort – the child should be able to move arms and legs freely.
- Check jacket length: Should cover the bottom but not extend past the fingers when arms are down.
- Trousers: Should sit at the natural waist (above the hips) and have a slight break on the shoes.
- Sleeves: Should end at the wrist bone, showing about ½ inch of shirt cuff.
Many shops offer free minor alterations (hemming trousers, taking in the jacket). Ask about this before renting.
5. Pricing and Rental Period
Rental prices vary by shop, quality, and number of items. Typical costs in Korea (2025):
- Basic suit set (jacket + trousers + shirt + tie): ₩25,000–₩50,000 for 3–5 days.
- Premium set (including vest, suspenders, pocket square): ₩50,000–₩80,000.
- Designer brands (e.g., imported suits): ₩80,000–₩150,000.
- Deposit: Usually ₩10,000–₩50,000, refundable upon return.
Rental periods are typically 3–7 days. Some shops offer extended rental for an additional fee (e.g., ₩5,000 per extra day). Always confirm the return date to avoid late fees.
Compare renting vs. buying: A new suit for doljanchi can cost ₩80,000–₩200,000, and the child will outgrow it quickly. Renting is often more economical unless you plan to reuse for multiple events. See our rent vs. buy guide for more insights.
6. Accessories and Styling
Complete the look with appropriate accessories. Most rental packages include a bow tie, but you can also rent or buy:
- Bow tie: Pre-tied or clip-on for easy fastening.
- Necktie: For a more formal look.
- Suspenders: Adds a vintage touch.
- Vest: Often in a contrasting color.
- Pocket square: Folds into the jacket pocket.
- Cufflinks: For French-cuff shirts.
- Shoes: Some shops rent baby dress shoes (sizes 12–18).
For footwear, many parents choose white or black leather shoes. If the shop doesn't rent shoes, buy a pair online (e.g., from Coupang) for ₩15,000–₩30,000.
Also consider the child's comfort: avoid itchy fabrics, and ensure the shirt is soft. Bring a pacifier or toy to keep the child calm during fitting.
For more on suit essentials, check our doljanchi suit essentials article.
7. Pickup, Return, and Care
Pickup: Inspect the suit for stains, tears, or missing buttons. Try it on the child again at home to confirm fit. Keep all items in a garment bag to prevent wrinkles.
During the event: Have a backup outfit (e.g., a simple romper) in case the child spills food or becomes uncomfortable. Many doljanchi events include a “doljabi” (fortune-telling) activity where the child grabs items from a table – the suit should allow free movement.
Return: Most shops require the suit to be returned clean and in good condition. Some shops include dry cleaning in the rental fee; others charge extra (₩5,000–₩10,000) if the suit is dirty. Check the policy. Return on time to avoid late fees (typically ₩5,000–₩10,000 per day).
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Waiting too long to rent – suits may be booked out.
- Not bringing the child for fitting.
- Ignoring the deposit refund process.
- Forgetting to return accessories (tie, suspenders).
If you need style inspiration, read our groom tuxedo styles article – many styles translate well to doljanchi suits.