This marks the third collaboration between Calvin Klein and the K-pop star MINGYU, member of SEVENTEEN, who was previously featured in the brand’s Spring 2024 and Fall 2023 campaigns. The campaign launched Tuesday and showcases the 28-year-old South Korean artist modeling pieces inspired by the ’90s that signal the brand’s continued investment in its global pop culture influence.
MINGYU appears throughout the campaign wearing Calvin Klein’s latest denim offerings, including pieces with the new CK emblem print. This bold monogram pattern offers a new interpretation of the brand’s classic logo and appears on jeans and trucker jackets, which the company describes as having a “clean, graphic edge.”
The timing feels deliberate. Calvin Klein has been strategically partnering with K-pop stars, having previously worked with BTS’s Jungkook, BLACKPINK’s Jennie, and members of NewJeans. In 2024, the brand’s international business generated 69% of total sales, approximately $2.48 billion, making global star power a smart business move.
The Fall 2025 line centers on nostalgic silhouettes with contemporary updates. Calvin Klein has revived its classic ’90s Straight Jean in vintage and dark indigo washes. The collection also includes the Slim Jean for a fitted look, the structured Carpenter Jean with workwear influences, and the 90s Taper Jean for a tailored fit.
What makes this campaign particularly effective is how MINGYU embodies the clothes rather than simply wearing them. The promotional videos depict him surrounded by dramatic lighting and large speakers, creating an atmosphere authentic to his musical background.
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The numbers speak volumes about K-pop’s commercial power. The campaign videos have already accumulated millions of views, with one reaching over 3.1 million views within days of release. SEVENTEEN has significant cultural influence, boasting 16.2 million Instagram followers and songs that have been streamed millions of times on Spotify.
This is MINGYU’s third Calvin Klein campaign, following his appearances in the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 campaigns. His continued partnership with the brand reflects his personal appeal and SEVENTEEN’s growing global influence. SEVENTEEN recently celebrated their tenth anniversary and announced an upcoming world tour that will hit U.S. venues in October.
Calvin Klein’s approach mirrors the success of their collaboration with Bad Bunny, whose underwear campaign video received 32.6 million views. The brand understands that fashion today requires cultural fluency across multiple markets and demographics.
Rolling out the campaign across Calvin Klein’s social media platforms throughout the week demonstrates the brand’s commitment to maximizing digital engagement. The pieces are available for purchase immediately on the brand’s website, capitalizing on the initial buzz.
