Industry News

4th-Gen K-pop Idols: Why Shoelaces Are Replacing Belts in Fashion Trends

3 min read
K-pop industry themed image: Snatched.

In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, fashion trends shift almost as rapidly as the beats of the chart-topping tracks themselves. Recently, a peculiar yet intriguing trend has taken center stage: 4th-g...

In the ever-evolving world of K-pop , fashion trends shift almost as rapidly as the beats of the chart-topping tracks themselves. Recently, a peculiar yet intriguing trend has taken center stage: 4th-generation male idols are so slender that they’re opting for shoelaces instead of traditional belts. This fashion choice has sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders alike. The Rise of a New Fashion Trend One of the most notable examples of this trend is ENHYPEN's Sunghoon, who recently appeared on the SBS music show 'Inkigayo' on December 13, 2025, wearing a shoelace as a belt. This minimalist approach not only accentuated his slim physique but also highlighted a broader trend among his peers. Other idols, such as Stray Kids’ Hyunjin and TXT's Yeonjun, have also been spotted adopting this style, particularly during performances and fan meet events across South Korea. Industry Insights: Why the Shift? Industry experts suggest that this trend is a reflection of the inc...

K-popKorean music4th-generation idolsfashion trendsshoelace belt

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