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✨K-pop • Fashion • Travel • Culture

  • Hybrid Beauty Trend Blends Skincare and Makeup

    The beauty industry is increasingly embracing “hybrid beauty,” a trend that blurs the line between skincare and makeup.

    Korean brand The Saem has drawn attention with its launch of the “Skin Perfection Glutathione Toning Cushion,” which contains 64% skincare ingredients. The product provides both blemish coverage and skin tone improvement while reducing skin burden with ingredients such as glutathione, vitamin C, and Madecawhite.

    Global ODM company Cosmax has developed a powder formulation infused with brightening ingredients, applying skincare benefits to color cosmetics like blushers and highlighters. Further expansion is expected, including products with moisturizing and wrinkle-improving functions.

    Meanwhile, global brands are also joining the hybrid beauty race: Benefit introduced a foundation enriched with niacinamide and rosehip extract, while Laura Mercier unveiled a hydrating fixer that combines moisturizing and fixing functions.

  • Starfield Brings Cultural Experience During Chuseok Holida

    Starfield is transforming into a “unique cultural experience venue” by offering various cultural experiences, from K-goods to a Hong Kong comic exhibition, in celebration of Chuseok.

    Starfield COEX Mall is running a “Korean Cultural Goods” pop-up store until October 5, showcasing a range of items that blend tradition and modernity, including museum goods and the Seokguram lighting from Studio Jeomseonmyeon. Additionally, a live zone has been set up where visitors can witness the 3D printing process in real-time, providing a special experience for attendees.

    Starfield Hanam will host the Hong Kong Comic Culture Exhibition from September 27 to October 9, introducing the development and unique style of Hong Kong comics through over 100 works. The exhibition will feature a wide range of themes, from martial arts and action to satire and humor, captivating visitors.

    On Chuseok day and the following day, “Joseonz,” a group of actors from the Korean Folk Village, will perform parades and Madang plays in Hanam (10/5) and Goyang (10/6). The 25 actors will march through the stores with the sound of drums, delivering an immersive performance that will bring the excitement of tradition to life for the audience.

  • Yeonjun of TOMORROW X TOGETHER Becomes UGG’s New APAC Ambassador

    UGG announced on the 25th that it has selected Yeonjun, a member of TOMORROW X TOGETHER, as its brand ambassador for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

    This contract marks the first time that UGG has officially signed a male model, a move that aligns with the rapid growth of sales in male products and is seen as a strategy to target the autumn and winter peak season. In fact, this year, UGG’s sales of male products increased by 135% compared to the same period last year, showing significant growth.

    UGG stated that Yeonjun’s trendy and unique style aligns well with the values of the brand, which is why he was chosen as the model. Yeonjun is gaining significant popularity, not only for his music activities but also for his active presence in fashion, beauty, and other fields.

    For the 2025 F/W campaign, Yeonjun will showcase various styling using UGG products, set against the backdrop of Seoul’s cityscape.

    Through this campaign, which includes slippers, sneakers, and other products, UGG aims to expand communication with male customers and increase the brand’s growth potential.

  • “HYBE Cracks Down on Counterfeit K-Pop Goods, Seizes 19,000 Items”

    The Korean Intellectual Property Office’s trademark special investigative unit has referred B, the CEO of Company A, to the prosecution on charges of violating the trademark law, as announced on the 24th. This case targets Company A, which produced counterfeit goods infringing on the intellectual property (IP) rights of nine popular K-pop idol groups, including BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), ENHYPEN, and LE SSERAFIM.

    In this crackdown, more than 19,356 counterfeit items were seized, including photo cards, socks, pens, clothing, mirrors, keychains, hats, mobile phone accessories, and tumblers. Company A had been selling these illegal products to foreign tourists and K-pop fans in Myeongdong, Seoul, profiting unlawfully.

    HYBE has been consistently monitoring and cracking down on the IP violations of its artists both online and offline. Last year, they seized 13,691 cases of counterfeit goods in the domestic e-commerce market and 278,568 cases overseas, while also taking action against 17,710 instances of unauthorized paid video distribution on SNS. Additionally, they educated customs officers on distinguishing between authentic and counterfeit items, resulting in the discovery of 3,462 IP-infringing goods last year.

    HYBE has pledged to continue working closely with the Korean Intellectual Property Office to protect the IP of their artists and to persist in efforts to eradicate counterfeit goods and improve public awareness.

  • “Seoul Architecture Biennale: A Festival of Architecture for All”

    The 5th Seoul Architecture Biennale, directed by renowned architect Thomas Heatherwick, opens today as a festival of architecture accessible to all citizens.

    Now in its fifth year, the Seoul Architecture Biennale is Korea’s first global event in the urban architecture field, bringing together cities from around the world to explore solutions to urban challenges. The opening ceremony is on September 26, and the event will run for 54 days, ending on November 18.

    This year’s event, unlike previous ones, focuses on citizen participation, moving away from expert-centered events and working to lower the barriers to entry in architectural culture.
    Heatherwick emphasized, “Many cities are wounded by the epidemic of loneliness, and buildings lack souls, only pursuing efficiency,” adding, “We now need buildings that entertain and engage people.”

    All exhibitions are free to visit, and citizen participation programs can be reserved through the Seoul Public Service Reservation website.

  • “Korean Brand TREEMINGBIRD Expands to Japan with Shibuya Debut”

    Korean designer brand TREEMINGBIRD has marked a strong debut in the Japanese market.

    On the 25th, TREEMINGBIRD, an investment brand under HAGO HOUSE, opened its first overseas pop-up store at Shibuya PARCO department store in Tokyo.

    Known for its monochrome normcore style rooted in neutral tones, TREEMINGBIRD has gained global attention and is well recognized as a favorite of K-pop idols such as Jennie, IVE, and TWICE’s Jihyo.

    The Shibuya pop-up marks its first overseas expansion, driven by this global popularity, and immediately drew long queues, creating an “open-run” buzz.

    The store features TREEMINGBIRD’s Fall collection unveiled at the “Tokyo Girls Collection 2025 AW,” alongside bestsellers such as sweat set-ups, off-shoulder knits, and hobo bags. In particular, the damaged sweatpants worn by Jennie—already a hot item—accounted for over 20% of sales, solidifying its hit status in Japan.

    The pop-up also offers special events, including limited gifts based on purchase amount, SNS verification campaigns, and a “one-day manager” program featuring Japanese influencers, delivering visitors a unique shopping experience.

    The pop-up store will run until October 16 on the 4th floor of Shibuya PARCO department store.

  • Korean Craft Past and Future on Display at Incheon Airport

    Incheon International Airport Corporation, in partnership with the National Heritage Promotion Institute, is presenting the special exhibition “HIP, KOREA! – Craft Connecting Eras, Shaping the Future” at the Incheon Airport Museum through March next year.

    The exhibition reinterprets the beauty of traditional Korean crafts with a modern perspective, showcasing around 70 pieces that include both contemporary artworks and traditional artifacts.

    Organized around the theme of “From Modern to Tradition,” the exhibition begins with contemporary crafts such as metalwork, ceramics, lacquerware, and textiles that highlight the potential of today’s K-craft. The latter part features authentic historical relics, including items from the National Museum of Korea and the Yanggu White Porcelain Museum, emphasizing their cultural roots and aesthetic depth.

    Visitors can also take part in interactive programs. Throughout the exhibition, the Korea Traditional Culture Center will offer a free hands-on experience where participants can make a “bojagi keyring,” allowing them to enjoy both the exhibition and Korea’s traditional culture.

  • ONE THING Launches Dual-Action Peptide Retinal Mist for Multi-Skin Concerns

    Aekyung Industrial’s skincare brand ONE THING announced on the 24th the launch of its “Peptide Retinal Mist.”

    This new product is formulated with a five-layer complex peptide and retinal, which minimizes skin irritation. It’s a dual-function cosmetic that addresses multiple aging concerns, such as wrinkles, elasticity, skin density, pores, and skin tone, offering both whitening and wrinkle improvement benefits.

    In particular, the product has shown significant improvement in various categories through human application tests, including crow’s feet wrinkles (105.59%), skin density (104.64%), vertical pore area (111.76%), facial lifting (107.39%), and skin brightness (102.10%). The product has also passed the sensitive skin irritation test, making it suitable for delicate skin.

    A unique feature of this mist is its dual formulation of cream and ampoule, delivered in a fine mist spray. It is gently applied to the skin, quickly absorbed, and forms a seamless moisture barrier that helps maintain a hydrated skin condition for longer.

    *This information is based on the manufacturer’s official description, and the effects may vary depending on individual skin conditions. If any skin irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a professional if necessary.

  • Suga’s First SNS Post in Two Years Sparks Global Buzz

    BTS member Suga (Min Yoongi, 32) has captured global attention by posting on social media for the first time in about two years. The photo, uploaded on September 22, shows him playing the guitar, marking his first post since August 2023.

    <Photo posted on Instagram>

    Suga began his alternative military service in 2023 and was discharged this past June. However, he previously sparked controversy when he was caught riding an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol. He later issued a direct apology to fans, bowing his head once again after his discharge to show genuine reflection.

    <Volunteering at a hospital>

    In June, Suga also donated 5 billion KRW to Severance Hospital to support the establishment of the “Min Yoongi Treatment Center,” dedicated to helping children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The donation is the largest ever made by a celebrity in Korea. He has also participated in volunteer work, demonstrating sincerity beyond financial contributions.

    Meanwhile, BTS is currently working on a new album, aiming for a full-group comeback early next year.

  • K-pop Meets India: HYBE Launches HYBE India to Unveil New Talent

    HYBE has officially established HYBE India in Mumbai, marking its full entry into the Indian market. This marks the fifth overseas headquarters after HYBE Japan, HYBE America, HYBE Latin America, and HYBE China, positioning India as an important hub for connecting K-pop and global content.

    HYBE India’s goal is to discover talented artists in India and connect their music with the world. They plan to conduct auditions locally and set up a customized training system, while actively supporting the activities of HYBE’s existing artists in India.

    India, with a population of 1.46 billion, holds the title of the world’s largest market, with 185 million streaming users. The popularity of K-pop is rapidly growing, with K-pop streaming in 2023 having increased by 362% compared to 2018.

    The establishment of HYBE India is part of HYBE’s “multi-home, multi-genre” strategy, which focuses on discovering and nurturing world-class artists through a localized K-pop production system. HYBE India will introduce artists who will bridge India with the global market and further accelerate the growth of the K-pop market in India.