Imagine a world where clothes don’t come with labels like “for men” or “for women”—where what you wear is all about how it makes you feel and express yourself. That’s what genderless fashion is all about, and it’s been making big waves in the K-pop scene. Younger generations, like you and me, are all about expressing who we are, and fashion is a massive part of that. It’s no longer just about looking good; it’s about showing the world who you are inside.
Discover how 10 influential K-Pop idols are empowering gender-fluid fashion. According to Kim Hyo-jung, professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Korea, this shift is driven not just by increased support for LGBTQ+ rights but also by Millennials and Gen Z embracing individuality. Fashion has become a powerful tool for self-expression, allowing us to convey our true selves.
8 Influential K-Pop Idols Empowering Gender-Fluid Fashion
Kang Daniel
Kang Daniel, who first gained fame as a member of the Wanna One project group, has become a significant figure in the fashion world, particularly in gender-neutral fashion. He’s known for his versatile style and willingness to push boundaries, which is why he’s a sought-after figure among luxury brands. One of the most notable examples is his endorsement of Louis Vuitton’s iconic Twist handbags.
These bags were initially designed with women in mind, but Kang Daniel’s effortless style proves that anyone can wear them. In a ” New Masculinity campaign,” he was seen wearing pieces from Louis Vuitton’s women’s spring and summer collection, including a cream blazer, a sleeveless printed T-shirt, and even a beige knit dress. It wasn’t just about looking good—it was a bold statement that fashion knows no gender. By pairing these traditionally feminine items with his confident aura, Kang Daniel challenges the outdated notion that certain clothes are only meant for one gender.
His influence doesn’t stop there. Last year, Kang Daniel made history by becoming the first male Korean celebrity to model for Chanel’s jewelry line. This role had previously only been filled by female stars like G-Dragon. In the photo shoot, he wore earrings, a watch, and Chanel rings, showing off a softer, more delicate side of masculinity. By doing so, he’s helping to redefine what it means to be masculine in the modern world, proving that men can embrace traditionally “feminine” accessories while still exuding strength and confidence.
Jimin
Jimin, a K-pop boy group BTS member, is known for his fearless fashion choices. He has become a fashion icon in his own right, often blending traditionally masculine and feminine elements to create looks that are entirely his own. One of the most talked-about moments in his fashion journey came in June 2021, just before BTS released their hit single “Butter.” In a teaser image for the song, Jimin was seen wearing a black-and-red plaid kilt paired with fur boots—a look that quickly went viral.
It wasn’t just a fashion statement but a decisive moment of gender expression. Traditionally associated with men in Scottish culture, the kilt took on a new meaning when worn by Jimin, a male idol in the K-pop industry. Both fans and fashion enthusiasts have praised him for challenging gender norms and demonstrating that clothing is a powerful form of self-expression beyond traditional gender roles.
Social media lit up with comments like, “Jimin is breaking gender norms for fashion and art,” and “He has shown us that fashion has no boundaries or gender and that it is used for self-expression and to pass on a message.” Jimin’s bold fashion choices inspire his fans to think outside the box and embrace their unique identities, no matter what others say.
BTS
As a group, BTS has been at the forefront of challenging gender norms in fashion. Known for their impeccable style, the members of BTS often incorporate elements of both masculine and feminine fashion into their wardrobes, creating looks that are as unique as their music. Whether through frilly white blouses, dangling earrings, or their ever-changing hair colors, BTS shows that fashion is a powerful tool for self-expression.
In the concept photos for their album “Map of the Soul: Persona,” BTS took their gender-neutral fashion to the next level by wearing pieces from Gucci’s women’s collection. Jungkook was seen with a blue handbag, V wore a sleeveless vest with ribbon trim, and Suga accessorized with a brooch. These aren’t items you’d typically see on male idols, but BTS pulls them off confidently, proving that fashion is about personal style, not fitting into a gendered box.
Their bold fashion choices reflect the values they promote in their music—individuality, self-identity, and love. When RM stood before the United Nations and told the world, “No matter who you are, where you’re from, your skin color, your gender identity—just speak yourself,” he wasn’t just talking about words; he was talking about the way BTS lives their lives, including how they dress. BTS blends feminine and masculine styles, inspiring fans to be true to themselves and defy societal norms.
G-Dragon
Before gender-neutral fashion became a mainstream topic, G-Dragon was already leading the charge. Known for his daring fashion sense, G-Dragon has long been a fixture in the front row at Chanel shows, often wearing pieces from the women’s collection. As a favorite of the late Karl Lagerfeld and a brand ambassador for Chanel, G-Dragon has redefined what it means to be a fashion icon.
Whether it’s a women’s tweed jacket, a pearl necklace, or a camellia brooch, G-Dragon makes every piece his own. His ability to mix luxury fashion with streetwear has made him a trendsetter in Korea and globally. When he says, “I’m kind of skinny, so I can wear women’s stuff too—so I think it’s unisex,” he’s not just talking about clothes but breaking down the barriers that separate men and women’s fashion.
G-Dragon’s influence on gender-neutral fashion is undeniable. By wearing women’s pieces and making them his own, he’s shown that fashion isn’t about conforming to traditional gender roles. It’s about discovering what suits you best and wearing it with confidence. His daring style has paved the way for other idols to explore gender-neutral fashion, proving that true style knows no gender.
Kai
Kai from EXO is another K-pop star who has made waves with his gender-neutral fashion choices. In 2019, Kai became the talk of the town when he performed in a crop top during EXO’s “Obsession” promotions. When worn by Kai, the crop top, a piece of clothing traditionally associated with women, took on a new meaning. It was a bold move that challenged the binary view of gender in fashion, showing that anyone can wear anything if they have the confidence to pull it off.
Kai’s crop top moment wasn’t just about making a statement; it was about pushing the boundaries of what’s considered acceptable for male idols to wear. His fearless approach to fashion has inspired fans and fellow idols to experiment with their style, proving that fashion is a form of self-expression that shouldn’t be limited by gender.
WEEKLY
WEEKLY is leading the charge towards more gender-neutral fashion in the realm of girl groups. The seven-member group recently caught the public’s attention by wearing shorts styled like school uniforms on stage. In Korea, female students are typically expected to wear skirts as part of their uniforms, so WEEKLY’s choice to wear shorts was a bold move that challenged traditional expectations.
By opting for shorts instead of skirts, WEEKLY is not just making a fashion statement; they’re advocating for comfort and practicality, showing that girls shouldn’t have to conform to outdated standards to look good. Their stage outfits break traditional gender norms, showing that fashion can be empowering and stylish.
WJSN THE BLACK
WJSN THE BLACK, a subunit of the girl group Cosmic Girls (WJSN), has also embraced gender-neutral fashion in a big way. Instead of the usual flashy dresses that girl groups often wear, WJSN THE BLACK chose to perform in sleek pantsuits. This choice wasn’t just about looking good and making a statement.
Pantsuits, traditionally associated with men, have become a symbol of power and confidence for women in recent years. WJSN THE BLACK challenges the idea that femininity has to be tied to dresses and skirts by wearing them on stage. Their decision to wear suits shows that women can be strong, confident, and stylish without conforming to traditional gender roles. It’s a compelling message that resonates with fans seeking fresh ways to express their identities.
Taemin
Taemin from SHINee has always been known for his smooth dance moves and unique fashion sense. In 2017, he took gender-neutral fashion to the next level with his performance of “Move.” The choreography, which featured a series of fluid, almost androgynous movements, departed from the more rigid, masculine dance styles typically seen in K-pop.
But it wasn’t just the dance that made an impact—it was the fashion. Taemin wore outfits that blurred the lines between masculine and feminine, showing that style doesn’t have to fit into a specific box. His performance of “Move” was all about breaking down stereotypes and showing that fashion and dance can be as fluid as the person wearing them. Taemin’s fearless approach to fashion has inspired a new generation of idols and fans to embrace their unique styles, no matter what others think.
The Impact on the Fashion Industry
Fashion is more than just clothes; it’s about identity and expression. That’s why so many K-pop idols are embracing gender-neutral styles. They’re showing fans that you don’t have to fit into any mold—you can just be yourself. This shift is changing the fashion industry, making it more inclusive and diverse. Before gender-neutral fashion, brands started breaking down barriers, like Yves Saint Laurent promoting age-defying outfits. Gender-defying fashion is now the latest trend, demonstrating that style is inclusive and meant for everyone, regardless of age or gender.
Challenges and Opportunities
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Breaking down these barriers means challenging long-standing norms, which can be difficult. There’s still a lot of work to ensure everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves through fashion. However, the opportunities are enormous—by embracing gender-neutral fashion, the industry can create a more inclusive world where everyone feels seen and valued.
So, what does this all mean for you? It means that the future of fashion is all about freedom—freedom to wear what you want, express who you are, and challenge the norms. K-pop idols lead the way, showing us that fashion has no limits. As fans, we can follow their lead, make our own rules, and create a world where style is as unique as we are.
