From nonstop promoting to practicing through the night, being a K-POP star is not an easy occupation. There’s a lot that is expected from them and they rarely get time to truly relax. Even though there is more than enough to do as a successful idol, a few idols have found opportunities for new endeavors and tried their hand at entrepreneurism. But not every idol can just create their own business. Many K-POP idols have created their own businesses but closed them or discontinued them due to lack of sales. Creating a brand or business takes a lot of time, effort, and dedication. Let’s highlight a select few who have successfully created their own business and who continue to show promise and potential.
G-DRAGON- Peaceminusone (2016)
It’s no question that G-Dragon, also known as GD, from Big Bang is one of the most influential figures in K-POP ever. Throughout the years, he has also proven himself to be respected and admired for his fashion sense as well. GD took his interest in art and fashion and then blended them into something amazing. He has often been shown spending his free time painting and drawing on various items of clothing. He eventually took his hobby and passion and turned them into a highly respected brand called Peaceminusone. Peaceminusone is a street fashion collection that sells clothes, shoes, and other accessories. The company started as an online company but quickly grew into brick and mortar locations in London and Seoul. Peaceminusone also served as an intricate addition to GD’s “Act III Motte Tour” as pop-up shops in all the cities on tour. This brand has shown promise and stability from the start, and has even collaborated with brands like Nike, Vogue, and French retailer Colette!
Jessica Jung- Blanc & Eclare (2014)
Just before her departure from Girls’ Generation, Jessica Jung created her luxury fashion brand called Blanc & Eclare. “Blanc” and “eclare” mean “clean” and “clear,” concepts which are reflected in Jessica’s personal style. With stores in cities like Seoul, New York, Beijing, Tokyo, and Vancouver, customers can shop for high-end makeup, skincare products, clothing, and other accessories. Jessica has shown her talent for running a business through collaborations with Vogue, Help for Children, Keds, Zalora and Casetify. Furthermore, many K-POP idols like Jennie, Irene, IU, Suzy, and Kyungri were seen wearing Blanc and Eclare products proving her relevance.
Byun Baekhyun- Privé by BBH (2018)
Baekhyun is often referred to as “the ace of EXO.” He has the ability to successfully dabble in a little bit of everything. In 2018, Baekhyun added fashion to his repertoire when he created Privé by BBH, a high-end streetwear clothing and accessories brand. To clear some confusion: Baekhyun does not own Privé Alliance but he is the Co-Creative Director which allows him to create his own brand. Privé by BBH has shown great success and Baekhyun just recently released a well-received Birthday Collection in May.
Jay Park- AOMG (2013)
Even before Jay Park was a member of 2PM, he showed interest in rap and producing music. Later in his life, he was able to fulfill his dreams and truly create an empire. AOMG stands for Above Ordinary Music Group and has definitely lived up to its name. Jay Park was able to create an independent record label and signed artist like Loco, Gray, Cha Cha Malone, Ugly Duck and Hoody, to name a few. AOMG has become a prominent name in the Korean hip-hop community. Not only was the label popular enough to go on a US tour, but it also became the first-ever hip-hop label to have their own audition program.
Teddy-The Black Label (2015)
When K-POP fans think of Teddy, they usually associate him with producing. However, unknown to many, Teddy had his humble beginnings as a member of the YG group 1TYM. After the group went into hiatus, Teddy began to focus on producing. This is where The Black Label comes in. Created by Teddy, this record label is a subsidiary of YG Entertainment. It currently houses popular R&B singer Zion.T, and former IOI center Somi. Under The Black Label, Teddy has been able to produce legendary songs for groups like BigBang, 2NE1, Blackpink, Se7en, and more!
This article was written by KPOP-TV Blog Team member Taryn Burress
