In the ever-evolving world of fashion, one factor has re-invented clothing styles and had an enormous influence on Korean fashion culture: K-Pop.

Originating in South Korea, this musical genre has caught the attention of millions worldwide. According to the IFPI 2019 Music Listening Report, K-pop is one of the most popular genres in the world. When Psy’s hit song “Gangnam Style” was released in 2012 and ranked No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, it was seen as K-pop’s big breakthrough in North America. Since then, K-pop has blown up into a global sensation. Its carefully crafted dance choreography, catchy melodies, and visually appealing music videos have come to define the genre.

Some of the most popular K-Pop groups consist of BTS (31.96 billion streams), Blackpink (10 billion streams), and EXO (2.9 billion streams). Beyond music, K-pop idols are also praised for their impeccable sense of style. Challenging conventional style norms, K-Pop’s edgy streetwear looks and classy high-fashion, idols have the ability to set trends that go far beyond the music industry, taking Korean fashion from a mix of traditional clothing and Western styles to the modern day streetwear/high fashion styles.

So, why do K-Pop idols have such an impact on the fashion industry? It has to do with how K-Pop idols have become major trendsetters through collaborating with fashion brands. The K-Pop fan base is also a major factor in why it has become so big. With their die-hard fans buying into those particular styles, K-Pop fashion trends become more and more popular.

“I think that since people are so into Korean fashion, they really get their inspiration from Korean music videos,” said Brianna Rivera, sophomore at Humphreys High School. “Even in Hongdae, you see buskers wearing similar outfits to idols in music videos.”

K-Pop’s experimental fashion choices and social media influence have brought South Korea to the forefront of the world’s fashion scene. The combination of fashion and music has produced a cultural phenomenon that characterizes a generation and also has a lasting impact on the fashion industry.