Calvin Klein is leaning heavily into the power of K-pop. The iconic fashion label has tapped Mingyu, rapper and singer from the globally successful boy band Seventeen, as the face of its Fall 2025 collection.
The 28-year-old South Korean star appears in the brand’s latest promotional videos, which debuted Tuesday, modeling a series of striking denim looks. Among the highlights: 90s Straight Jeans and a monogrammed denim-on-denim ensemble that channels Calvin Klein’s minimalist yet bold aesthetic.
True to the brand’s DNA, the campaign also includes signature shirtless shots of Mingyu, showing off the waistband of Calvin Klein’s classic underwear — a hallmark of its advertising for decades.
Millions of Views in Days
The campaign has already captured massive attention. As of press time, one video featuring Mingyu had been viewed 1.9 million times, while a second racked up over 3.1 million views. The buzz underscores both Calvin Klein’s enduring cultural influence and K-pop’s unstoppable global reach.
For Calvin Klein, Mingyu isn’t a newcomer. He previously fronted campaigns for the brand in Fall 2024 and Spring 2025, cementing his position as a consistent collaborator.
Seventeen’s Rising Global Recognition
Seventeen has become a cultural powerhouse far beyond Asia. With 16.2 million Instagram followers and hundreds of millions of streams on Spotify, the group’s influence makes its members highly sought-after in the fashion industry.
Earlier this year, Seventeen leader S.Coups made his Met Gala debut, walking the red carpet in a Hugo Boss ensemble as the brand’s ambassador. These high-profile appearances reflect the increasing crossover between K-pop stars and luxury fashion houses eager to connect with younger audiences.
Calvin Klein’s Ongoing K-Pop Strategy
Mingyu joins a growing list of K-pop idols who have starred in Calvin Klein campaigns, including BTS’s Jungkook, Blackpink’s Jennie, and members of NewJeans. Each collaboration has amplified the brand’s resonance with younger consumers and fueled global buzz across social media.
The label’s international strategy isn’t confined to K-pop. Calvin Klein has also reaped major rewards from its partnership with Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny. His Calvin Klein campaign video, featuring him dancing in the brand’s cotton stretch underwear to his hit EoO, has drawn more than 32.6 million views to date.
International Markets Drive Growth
These high-profile global campaigns are critical to Calvin Klein’s bottom line. According to parent company PVH Corp., international sales accounted for 69% of Calvin Klein’s total revenue in 2024 — roughly $2.48 billion. Keeping international customers engaged and loyal remains a key driver of the brand’s growth strategy.
