Korean culture seems to be something we simply adore. It is understandable, then, that London’s V&A Museum just debuted a sensational new exhibition in honor of the occasion. The exhibition will run until June 25, 2023. With the name Hallyu!
The Korean Wave exhibition is divided into sections on K-culture, K-drama, K-pop, and, most excitingly of all, a roomful of fashion featuring modernized versions of traditional Korean hanboks (tight-fitting cropped jackets and bell-shaped skirts), as well as variety of outstanding designers to keep an eye on.
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listing the best Korean fashion designers to get inspired right now!
1. KATHLEEN KYE
As far back as I can remember, I’ve liked clothes and fashion, says Kathleen Kye of her earliest interests. Nothing piqued my interest more than fashion, therefore it seemed natural that I would make a career out of it. Her efforts paid off; thanks to her vivid, upbeat look, Kye’s namesake label has amassed a cult following and a burgeoning international clientele.
2. BYUNGMUN SEO & JINA UM
While employed by another company in Korea, Byungmun Seo, and Jina Um became friends. They decided to go it alone after realizing that they had a similar aesthetic and got along well together. BMUET(TE) began operations in 2015. Their goal? Using their artistic approach, which they characterize as “strange yet beautiful,” to subvert established ideals of fashion.
3. HWAN HEO
In college, Hwan Heo first majored in history. Unsurprisingly, his rich collection of historical allusions has had a significant influence on his originality. Heohwan Simulation, the brand he started in London, combines the beauty and craftsmanship of the past with his predictions for the direction of fashion. The designer is using sustainability as a prism to examine high-end and casual clothing from the 1980s and 1990s this season.
4. DONG HO HA, SWBD
It wasn’t always Dong Ho Ha’s goal to work in the fashion industry. I aspired to be a vehicle engineer when I was younger, he claims. However, he chose to major in fashion. The bargain was sealed when I got a job as a designer’s assistant during Seoul Fashion Week. I decided I wanted to launch my brand after that encounter. Ha is now leveraging fashion to close the generational and gender gap under his brand, SWBD (short for Sewing Boundaries).
5. SEUNGHEE LEE
University history was Hwan Heo’s initial field of study. His rich collection of historical allusions has had a significant influence on his originality. Heo fuses historical aesthetics and workmanship with his predictions for the future of fashion for his London-based brand, Heohwan Simulation. This season, the designer is using sustainability as a lens through which to see opulent and informal clothing from the 1980s and 1990s.
6. CHUNG CHUNG LEE
The LIE SANGBONG concept store in New York City carries the Central Saint Martins alum’s designs in addition to his father’s clothing line. According to him, “We sought to create a space that best symbolizes the company, a combination of fashion innovation and creative expression.” “The retail location serves as a platform for showcasing LIE’s mission. A gallery that supports modern fine artists also has exhibitions that have been carefully organized.
7. HYE YOUNG SHIN
The origin of Wnderkammer is as peculiar as its name. Designer Hye Young Shin claims that before cameras, German nobility kept their prized possessions in a hidden space known as a Wnderkammer. “I want my brand to be like this place for contemporary ladies.” And so it has—her fashionable, wearable outfits frequently feature unique elements. Additionally, she makes an effort to use eco-friendly textiles because she is an environmental activist.
8. JI HYUN HWANG & SUNG JUN CHO
Ji Hyun Hwang and Sung Jun Cho, a husband and wife team, debuted their line, Hidden Forest Market, in 2012. Being partners in both life and work couldn’t be simpler for this couple. We enjoy working as a team, and my wife is the person who inspires me the most, adds Hwang. “My family is the most important thing in the world to me. I’ve never thought that business and personal lives should be kept apart.
9. NOAH NAM
Noah Nam is introducing refinement and modernism to everyday objects rather than creating eye-catching but unusable red-carpet products. Thanks to his unisex line, customers can approach essentials in a new way. The simplicity and ease of my designs allow anyone to wear them organically, the designer asserts. These forms of clothing are appropriate for everyone, regardless of age or gender.
10. HEEJIN KIM
Hee-Jin Kim introduced his company in 2013. His creations are part of a womenswear range that is produced under the Kimmy J label. It contains black apparel with punk and rock influences, like faux leather miniskirts and blouses. The core of the designs is preserved. The label now includes menswear, however, materials and shapes haven’t altered much over the years.
11. LEESLE HWANG
She is a fashion designer with a strong desire for bringing back the Hanbok, the traditional Korean outfit. The modern hanbok company Leesle was founded by Leesle Hwang, who also serves as its CEO. The attendees loved the clothing. By identifying people’s growing interest in contemporary adaptations of traditional Korean apparel, she founded an internet store that has now become a hugely successful business.
12. TAE YONG KO
“A major source of inspiration for Tae Yong Ko’s Beyond Closet is a preppy, Americana look. The designer thinks that what people wear in their closets is a reflection of their personalities and lifestyles. She first decided to pursue a profession in design after going to a Fashion Week. Naturally, his creations are influenced by this mindset.
