Kathrine Frich
Kim Jong Un has long shaped the country’s politics, but lately he appears to be shaping something far less expected: fashion trends.
His frequent public appearances in glossy trench coats and heavy leather boots have turned a signature look into a national obsession, prompting young North Koreans to hunt for similar clothes in markets across the country.
Retailers, who often struggle during the short autumn season, say the leader’s wardrobe has unintentionally delivered one of the strongest winter sales boosts in years.
Trend takes hold
According to reporting cited by NK Daily, leather jackets and short faux fur coats are among the most sought-after items this winter.
Vendors say the coats are warm, lightweight and produced in a range of colours such as white, black, maroon and scarlet.
Prices typically range from the equivalent of £5 to £13, making them accessible to many buyers.
A marketplace source told NK Daily that customers appreciate the variety and affordability.
“Jackets with short (faux) fur and leather jackets have been hot sellers at marketplaces this winter,” the source said, noting that the pieces are made domestically from imported fabrics, which are now considered to be of “pretty decent quality.”
Leader’s look
Demand intensified after Kim Jong Un, his daughter Kim Ju Ae and other senior officials were repeatedly shown on state television wearing long leather coats.
The leader has appeared at military events and ceremonial gatherings in a dark trench coat, a style that young people see as modern and sharp despite its political associations.
NK Daily reports that the popularity of these jackets surged further this year when markets began selling versions lined with cotton for extra warmth.
Most are produced by local dressmakers using material brought in from China.
Boost for vendors
For clothing sellers in the country’s informal markets, the sudden appetite for winter gear has been welcome relief.
Autumn often brings slow trade, since residents avoid spending money on items they may wear only briefly.
This year, however, falling temperatures and the Kim-inspired trend have changed the pattern.
“But now that temperatures are falling, winter clothing and shoes are flying off the shelves,” the NK Daily source said.
Vendors dealing in the most popular faux fur coats, leather jackets and combat-style boots are reportedly “gleeful about their financial good fortune.”
Boots in demand
Leather work boots and tall combat boots are also selling quickly, especially in northern regions such as Ryanggang province, where winter conditions are severe.
NK Daily notes that the boots are practical in snow and, in many cases, cheaper than the dress shoes introduced earlier in the year.
Market traders do face risks if selling imported items of unclear origin, but domestically assembled clothing is considered safer and more reliable to trade, making the leather boom especially valuable for them.
“Military boots from the Korean People’s Army have always been popular among young people,” the source explained.
“But these tall leather combat boots, though inspired by military issue boots, have a look of luxury. They’re particularly popular with men, who are pleased with how sharp they look.”
Sources: Daily Star, NK Daily.
