The Rise of K-Pop Stars on the Fashion Runway
In today’s fashion landscape, the boundaries between music and fashion are increasingly blurred. Singers are no longer content with merely occupying front-row seats at runway shows; they are stepping onto the catwalk themselves. This shift has been particularly pronounced with the rise of K-pop, a genre that has captivated global audiences and is now making significant inroads into the fashion world.
A Historic Moment: Lisa at Victoria’s Secret
One of the most striking examples of this crossover occurred when Lisa from Blackpink became the first K-pop artist to perform at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Her performance marked the event’s return after a six-year hiatus, surprising many and highlighting the growing influence of K-pop beyond music. Lisa’s appearance was not just a performance; it was a cultural milestone that underscored how far K-pop has come in the global entertainment landscape.
Twice Takes the Stage
Fast forward a year, and the spotlight shifted to another K-pop powerhouse: Twice. In October, members Nayeon, Momo, Jihyo, and Tzuyu graced the runway at the same prestigious event, joining a lineup that included stars like Missy Elliott and Karol G. Tzuyu expressed her excitement on the red carpet, stating, "When we first heard the news that we’d be performing at the Victoria’s Secret fashion show, it honestly felt like a dream come true." This moment not only showcased Twice’s rising star power but also reflected the increasing acceptance of K-pop in Western markets.
The Influence of JYP Entertainment
The selection of Twice for the Victoria’s Secret show was coordinated through their U.S. agency, although details about why only four of the nine members performed remain undisclosed. Nevertheless, their participation can be seen as a testament to Twice’s growing influence in the Western music scene. Their recent special album, celebrating a decade since their debut, entered the Billboard 200 at number 11, making them the first K-pop girl group to achieve ten entries on the chart. Such milestones further solidify their status as global icons.
Luxury Brands and K-Pop Collaborations
Luxury brands are keenly aware of K-pop’s massive international appeal and are increasingly enlisting popular idols to enhance their global reach. These collaborations not only elevate the fashion-forward image of the idols but also introduce them to audiences beyond the music scene. The synergy between K-pop and high fashion is mutually beneficial, as brands tap into the idols’ dedicated fanbases to generate buzz and drive sales.
K-Pop Idols on the Runway
Beyond performing, K-pop idols are also making waves by walking the runway alongside top models. S Coups from Seventeen, for instance, made headlines during Milan Fashion Week as the global brand ambassador for Hugo Boss. He closed designer Marco Falcioni’s show, a coveted position typically reserved for the most prominent models. Dressed in a striking ensemble, S Coups walked alongside renowned figures like Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser, captivating a star-studded audience that included David Beckham and Chloe Bailey.
Fan Excitement and Social Media Buzz
The excitement surrounding K-pop idols at fashion events is palpable. Fans worldwide took to social media platforms like X to express their enthusiasm, with hashtags trending as they shared clips from the shows and celebrated their idols’ achievements. This online engagement further amplifies the visibility of both the idols and the brands they represent, creating a powerful marketing synergy.
Felix’s Journey with Louis Vuitton
Another notable example is Felix from Stray Kids, who has quickly become a favorite of Louis Vuitton since becoming a brand ambassador in 2023. He has modeled in the brand’s fall-winter 2024 and 2025 shows, fulfilling a lifelong dream of walking the runway. In a heartfelt video for Vogue, Felix described the experience as one of the "happiest and most memorable moments" of his life, showcasing the personal significance of these fashion collaborations.
The Future of K-Pop in Fashion
As K-pop continues to dominate the global music scene, its influence on fashion is likely to grow even further. The trend of K-pop idols walking the runway and performing at high-profile fashion events is not just a passing phase; it represents a new era where music and fashion intersect in exciting and innovative ways. The collaboration between luxury brands and K-pop idols is set to redefine the fashion landscape, making it an exhilarating time for both industries.