Dior names K-pop star Jimin as global brand ambassador

Jimin, a member of South Korean K-pop band BTS poses for photographers during a press conference to introduce their new album "BE" in Seoul, South Korea on Nov. 20, 2020. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

PARIS — French fashion house Dior on Monday named K-pop star Jimin a global brand ambassador, broadcasting the tie-up on social networks with images of the BTS singer in sporty looks with an outdoor flair, designed by Kim Jones.

The move comes as European luxury houses look to tap into the global popularity of K-pop stars, particularly with younger shoppers.

The LVMH-owned label has also forged links with K-pop star Jisoo, of Blackpink, drawing crowds of screaming fans to Paris when she attends the label's runway shows.

Jimin, 27, whose full name is Park Ji-min, is one of the seven-member group BTS, which sparked a worldwide K-Pop frenzy with catchy, upbeat music and dance moves following its debut in 2013.

South Koreans have become the world's biggest spenders per capita on personal luxury goods, splashing out an average of US$325 a year, according to analysts at Morgan Stanley.

The bulk of household wealth in the country, 76 per cent, is held in the real estate market, while housing prices increased considerably in the past couple of years, noted the analysts.