The Korean Accessory Guide

IU is a unique figure because her fans span so many countries and age groups—from teenagers in Korea to adults across Asia, North America, and beyond. Her influence goes far beyond music or drama; it extends into everyday style, where accessories play an important role.

In Korea, entertainment agencies like Starship encourage celebrities to highlight local fashion markets, including accessories. Stylists and fashion coordinators work closely with shops such as Jealousy, Jewel County, and Feverish, which collaborate with independent designers—including those who design for LuteWorks. This ecosystem creates a tightly knit community where celebrities, stylists, and accessory designers are bound together.

Sponsored by jealousy

Of course, stars receive sponsorships and even gifts of luxury goods. But it’s also common to see them wear pieces costing as little as ₩23,000 (about $20 USD) in commercials, dramas, or even on stage at overseas concerts. This isn’t only about making items affordable for fans—it’s about contributing to the wider cultural flow and showing that beauty and meaning don’t depend on price.

For many Koreans, the choice of accessories has also become about authenticity. Instead of pretending with counterfeit logos or overspending on items far beyond their budget, people feel proud to support the styles endorsed by their favorite celebrities. It’s no longer about imitating a fantasy life—it’s about creating a real connection between daily life and cultural influence. When IU wears an accessory in a drama or a commercial, her fans don’t just see glamour; they see something they, too, can wear with honesty and pride.

Sponsored by LuteWorks 👉 Shop the collection here

Korea is also home to the Namdaemun Market, a historic marketplace with centuries of tradition. Many of these so-called “low-cost” accessories are still handmade, part of a living craft culture passed down through generations. This heritage of skill and creativity, combined with today’s distribution networks, ensures that Korean accessories remain vibrant—accessible, authentic, and deeply connected to both celebrity culture and everyday life.

 Coming Next: In my next post, I’ll take you inside Namdaemun Market—a place where history, handmade culture, and modern accessory trends come together.