Yeounsu Koh
We’re already halfway through 2025—can you believe it? Time really flies, and I thought this would be a perfect moment to look back at some of the cultural and consumer trends predicted in Trend Korea 2025 to see which ones are still shaping our daily lives.
Here are ten key trends that continue to resonate with me, and maybe with you too:
1. Omnivore
Originally meaning someone who “eats everything,” this term now describes people who break away from labels and explore whatever interests them—regardless of age, gender, or background. As an “omnivore” myself, I’ve noticed how much more open we’ve become to mixing styles, hobbies, and even career paths.
2. Aboha (A Very Ordinary Day)
‘Aboha’ is short for A Very Ordinary Day, and honestly, it hits home. More people (myself included) are finding peace in uneventful, quiet routines. We’re slowly shifting from chasing constant excitement to being grateful for the small, everyday moments. This trend feels especially relevant in our fast-paced student lives.
3. Topping Economy
If you’ve ever decorated your phone case or added charms to your Crocs, you’re part of the Topping Economy. It’s all about personalizing products and making them uniquely yours.
4. Face Tech
Technology is getting more “human.” With AI that reads facial expressions or creates personalized digital faces, Face Tech is making our interactions with machines feel more natural. Whether it’s virtual assistants or avatars, this shift is making tech a little more emotionally intelligent.
5. The Power of Harmlessness
In a world that sometimes feels too intense, harmless, soft, and cute things are surprisingly powerful. Think Sanrio characters or calming YouTube content—they provide comfort in a way that’s easy to overlook but deeply needed.
6. Gradation K
As Korea becomes increasingly multicultural, what it means to be “Korean” is also evolving. Gradation K refers to this blending of tradition and global influences. I think it’s amazing to see how K-culture is expanding and becoming more inclusive.
7. Physicality Appeal
Even in this hyper-digital age, we still crave physical experiences. Pop-up stores, merch, and character goods feel more personal because we can actually touch them. There’s something about real-world interaction that digital can’t quite replace.
8. Climate Sensibility
After the record-breaking heatwaves in 2024, it’s no surprise that climate awareness is now part of our everyday choices. Whether it’s using less plastic or supporting eco-friendly brands, more of us are realizing that small actions really do matter.
9. Co-evolution Strategy
Big names like Samsung and Hyundai or Apple and OpenAI are proving that collaboration is often more powerful than competition. This co-evolution strategy shows that mutual growth is possible—and maybe even essential—in today’s complex world.
10. One-Point Up
Forget the pressure of waking up at 5AM to change your life overnight. One-Point Up is all about making small, consistent improvements—just 1% at a time. It’s about staying true to yourself and growing in a way that’s sustainable, not overwhelming.
These trends from Trend Korea 2025 really helped me reflect on where we are culturally and where we’re headed. Whether you’re into marketing, business strategy, or just figuring out your path in life, I think there’s a lot to take away from this list. Which trend speaks to you the most?
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