K-Bops in K-Pop

Yes, I’ve been absent during what is arguably BTS’s biggest comeback but honestly it’s because I have nothing to say except that I love every single second of the new album and I’ve been listening to it every day. I briefly thought about doing a review but I just feel like I wouldn’t say anything that anyone else hasn’t said already and all I can think to say anyway is “It’s a bop.”

But enough of that. We are here to talk about an incredible phenomenon of fashion known to those in ARMY community as Hobicore. It is an embodiment of the sunshine and childlike energy that Hobi exudes with elements of Lisa Frank, 90s style trends, and a little something I like to call “hobihobi.”

Nothing serves as a better example of Hobicore than Outro: Ego. In it, we see Hoseok wearing friendship bracelets, plasticky rings, and painted nails—all of it in bright yellows, blues, greens, and reds.

It’s a style that is distinctly Hobi and it seems that the more time that passes, the more he settles into this identity as the innovator of this fashion movement.

Because I happen to love Hoseok and all things bright and cute, I am wearing a Hobicore-inspired outfit to the concert in May. I just bought a pair of these earrings and I’m planning on embroidering a t-shirt as well as making my own accessories to match. If you’d like to see more of my outfit as it comes together, let me know!

At a time when BTS is on an international stage more than ever before, I think it’s really amazing that Hobi can display and share his style with such a large audience. While all the members have their own unique taste, I can’t help but love Hobi’s and all the brightness it holds.