What each kind of size information tells you
| Label or chart | What to check | What it cannot establish alone |
|---|---|---|
| S, M, L or numbered sizes | The brand’s own chart for this item | A universal international equivalent |
| 55 or 66 in a Korean chart | Actual measurements and product selector | That the number is a chest width in cm |
| Body measurements | Intended wearer measurements | The finished garment’s dimensions |
| Garment measurements | Finished clothing and measuring method | How comfortable every body will feel |
| FREE or ONE SIZE | One offered size and its measurements | That it fits everyone |
A real 55 and 66 chart: the increments are not all the same
ANDYOU’s published chart for its Cream slim-fit cardigan set gives these cardigan measurements. This is a chart example from a sold-out product page checked for this guide, not a current stock recommendation.
| Chart size | Chest circumference | Shoulder width | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | 81.3 cm | 35.6 cm | 54.6 cm |
| 66 | 86.4 cm | 36.8 cm | 55.2 cm |
Here the chest changes by 5.1 cm, the shoulders by 1.2 cm and length by just 0.6 cm. Going up a size therefore does not make every dimension much longer. These values describe this specific cardigan; they are not a Korean national size-conversion table.
Body size and garment size answer different questions
UNIQLO Korea distinguishes body measurements from measurements of the finished garment. Its guidance says to measure clothing laid flat and notes that fabric, wrinkles and measuring points can affect results; it describes 1–2 cm variation. It also warns that a size label can show body sizing rather than garment dimensions. Read the chart title before copying a number.
For a loose shirt, comparing an existing shirt is often the most useful starting point. For a fitted dress or trousers, body and garment information both matter. If your chest is 90 cm and a garment circumference is also 90 cm, the arithmetic leaves no extra space; that alone does not prove a comfortable fit. Fabric, construction and the intended silhouette still matter.
Flat width is not circumference
Look for 가슴단면, commonly used for a flat chest width, versus 가슴둘레, meaning chest circumference. Confirm the retailer’s measurement diagram rather than relying on a translated field name. A 50 cm flat width is approximately 100 cm around a simple flat garment, not a 50 cm wearer’s chest. Double a flat width only when the measurement actually spans half the garment; do not double an already stated circumference.
Use one unit throughout: 1 inch equals 2.54 cm, so 20 inches equals 50.8 cm. A difference between 50 cm and 50.8 cm is very different from confusing 50 cm width with 100 cm circumference. If the chart has no diagram, ask the seller what the number measures before ordering.
Measure a reference item before browsing
Choose a garment with a fit you already like and a similar construction. Lay it flat without pulling the fabric. Record the chest width, shoulder width, length and sleeves for a top. For trousers, add waist, hip, rise, thigh and inseam according to the retailer’s diagram. A favourite stretchy knit is a poor reference for a rigid woven shirt if you ignore that difference.
Illustration, not a product listing: your shirt measures 54 cm across the chest and a listing says 51 cm by the same method. The listed shirt is 3 cm narrower flat, roughly 6 cm less around. Before accepting that difference, check whether your reference shirt already fits closely and whether the fabrics behave similarly. A model’s height and a photograph cannot answer those questions for you.
Fit disappointment and a faulty item are different cases
MUSINSA Global’s current fit help page says returns or refunds for an incorrect size choice or simple change of mind are not available. It directs shoppers to SIZE & FIT before purchase. This is that retailer’s published policy, not a rule for every Korean brand. Check the item’s SHIPPING & RETURNS details before paying.
Its return-process page separately describes seller-error or defective-item claims within seven days of receipt, supported by at least three photos, followed by support approval before dispatch. Keep the packaging and tags while checking an eligible problem. Do not buy two sizes assuming that an international fashion order has a try-at-home return service.
Before you order
- Check the exact product chart, not a general conversion image.
- Identify body versus garment and width versus circumference.
- Compare measurements in the same unit and by the same method.
- Check the narrowest or least stretchy part, not just the chest.
- Read product-specific delivery and return conditions.
- Save the size chart and the selected option with your order.
Keep one reusable measurement card
Record your favourite top’s flat chest, shoulders, length and sleeves; for trousers, record the retailer-compatible waist, hip, rise and inseam. Mark the unit and whether the fabric stretches. Save the card with a photograph showing the measuring points, so the next purchase starts from the same method.
Illustrative comparison: a 51 cm shirt width is 3 cm narrower than your 54 cm reference, while a 72 cm length is 8 cm longer than your 64 cm reference. One dimension being close does not make the whole garment a match. Compare the differences you care about rather than converting everything into a single S/M label.
Continue planning
For FREE labels, read how to check Korean one-size clothing. Use buying Korean fashion online for seller and delivery checks. If trying things on during a trip is important, plan a Seongsu shopping day and choose a Seoul shopping base that keeps the journey manageable.