South Korea has quickly become one of the beacons of fashion, developing its own unique style and sophistication. This can partly be attributed to the ever-growing popularity of stylish K-pop celebrities like G-Dragon and Jennie, with rookies like MEOVV and CORTIS sparking a trend, as well as the rise in the number of homegrown, luxury Korean fashion brands. What sets Korean fashion apart as its own brand of unique fashion flavour is its propensity for experimentation and the unconventional.
If you’re new to Korean fashion brands or simply want to know more, we’ve rounded up some of the best ones you need to know below.
MINJUKIM
You’d probably have heard of Minju Kim by now; the winner of Netflix‘s first reality fashion show, “Next in Fashion”, is known for her playful, avant-garde pieces that combine bold silhouettes with feminine details such as bows, lace, and ruffles. Kim has designed outfits for BTS’ songs DNA and I Need U during their Love Yourself world tour. Fans of MINJUKIM, members of Red Velvet have also worn the label for their One of These Nights music video.
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Hyein Seo
Known for her unique and edgy designs that often blend streetwear and high fashion elements, Hyein Seo gains recognition for her rebellious aesthetic, incorporating witty designs, oversized silhouettes, and unconventional detailing. The collections often explore themes of youth culture, subversion, and societal norms. Her designs have been worn by notable celebrities like Rihanna and Kendrick Lamar, and have been featured in prominent fashion publications and runway shows.
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LOW CLASSIC
A great option for curated minimalism lovers, LOW CLASSIC lives up to its name by offering everyday fashion staples in simple, sophisticated designs. Designer Myoungsin Lee’s pieces, which combine a pared-back concept with feminine elegance, are renowned for its streamlined silhouettes and timeless pieces, such as longline belted trench coats and tailored trousers, crafted in neutral tones.
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Open YY
Open YY, formerly known as TheOpen Product, draws inspiration from the early ‘90s and ‘00s, offering easy-to-wear silhouettes that embrace diversity and self-expression. The brand is recognised for unique details such as asymmetry, exposed hems, and cut-outs, challenging traditional norms in women’s fashion. Wardrobe staples feature off-kilter proportions in tonal shades to unveil a vision of that early 00’s feel but with a twist.
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Skoot Apparel
Founded by artist, rapper, and designer MLMA, Skoot Apparel offers genderless hip-hop and goth punk with manga- and anime-centric graphic pieces. Over the years, the streetwear brand continues to expand beyond apparel into custom accessories, collectible and out-of-the-box wearables. Bursting with personality and unique silhouettes, the brand’s bold and eccentric aesthetic has garnered a fanbase across the world and has been styled by stars including Billie Eilish, Grimes, and BTS.
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WOOYOUNGMI
Originally a menswear-only brand, Wooyoungmi expanded to womenswear in 2020, a natural shift facilitated by the brand’s neutral, androgynous appeal. The label is renowned for its architectural tailoring and modern approach to classic silhouettes. The pieces, designed by Youngmi Woo, have been showcased at Paris Men’s Fashion Week since 2003, solidifying the brand’s presence in the global fashion scene.
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Matin Kim
Matin Kim features minimalist streetwear-style pieces from outerwear and logo tees to shoes and bags. Its pieces are touted to be effortlessly trendy yet comfortable. Launched in 2018, the label quickly became a crowd-favourite, worn by Korean celebrities and the general public alike. The brand’s recent projects include a collaboration with Aespa’s Ningning for its 2025 winter collection.
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