South Korean label KANGHYUK was founded by Royal College of Art graduates Kanghyuk Choi and Sanglak Shon in 2017. Since their debut, the duo’s conceptually-driven line has garnered the attention of fashion publications, stylists and discerning consumers. Choi and Shon became semi-finalists for the prestigious LVMH prize in 2019 and have since been highly sought-out by buyers and concept retailers worldwide. Farfetch, SSENSE and END clothing are just some of the label’s faithful stockists.

KANGHYUK’s quick rise to recognition was hardly an accident and 2020 was proof of the brand’s momentum reaching higher speeds. This year, Kanghyuk Choi and Sanglak Shon released collections “8” and “9” and demonstrated how adept they are at deconstruction, pattern-making, colorization and styling. With “Collection 8,” imperfect elements such as the use of repurposed car airbags, washed nylon, crinkled surfaces and spot dyeing fully brought out the attractiveness of the range. The sleek down jackets, metallic overcoats, exposed-seam trousers and a printed parka were clear standouts. For “Collection 9,” KANGHYUK redefined the modern motorcycle culture aesthetic with short zipped jackets, quilted panel trousers, a multi-zip bomber and tech fabric tops. Both ranges continue to uphold the brand’s inventive upcycling concepts which are sure to lure in more fans for the brand.

Aside from the new seasonal collection, KANGHYUK also collaborated once again with Reebok. The partnership resulted in the releases of a Premier Road Modern featuring tire tread-inspired uppers, and a run of Zig Kinetica sneakers made from leftover fabrics and materials used from “Collection 8.”