To be sure, the global marketplace for limited-edition sneakers is highly competitive. However, in recent years there has been an increasing number of global sneaker brands looking to take advantage and capitalize on this interest among South Korean millennials by launching various initiatives designed specifically toward creating special Korean edition sneakers. It is not uncommon to see long lines at Nike and Adidas stores across Seoul of people waiting to get their hands on these limited edition sneakers made for the South Korean market. It is also no secret that Korea’s youth are becoming more receptive to global brands than ever. Below is a complete list of the hottest and best special Korean edition sneakers.
Nike Dunk Low “Seoul”
Nike released the Dunk Low “Seoul” to celebrate South Korea’s independence day in 2021. Inspired by their flag, this shoe features red and blue hoops in honor of land, while black represents people or government oppression during times when they had no control over what happened within their own country. The white background symbolizes peace after the struggle finally reached an end showing that Koreans would be free from external forces telling individuals how things should behave rather than allowing each person to decide for themselves.
Price: $110
NIKE AIR JORDAN 3 “SEOUL”
The Jordan Brand made the Air Jordan 3 Seoul sneaker for both men and women. It includes aspects of Seoul, South Korea. The sneakers were originally available in 2018 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the AJ3 silhouette and the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The elephant print is prevalent on the mudguard and heels of this white leather shoe. The Korean flag flies from the right tongue, while text reading “Seoul” and “Harmony and Progress,” the Games’ iconic motto, are printed on the inside. To complete the design, Korea’s distinctive red and blue colors.
ADIDAS ULTRABOOST 4.0 “Seoul 1988”
ADIDAS released this for the 30th anniversary of the Seoul 1988 Olympic Games. It was released exclusively in South Korea. It looks like a new version of the Nike Air Max 90 with a clean white Primeknit-designed toe, bright accents, and the heel and tongue tab. The otherwise simple palette is contrasted by vivid pops of color delivered by bold bursts of red and blue, both of which pay homage to South Korea’s national colors.
PUMA “SEOUL CAMO” Trinomic KT2
PUMA partnered with the Korean streetwear brand thisisneverthat to collaborate on the “Seoul Camo” Trinomic XT2 in 2014. The designers took care of conformity with current trends. The high quality additionally characterizes it as made with leather. As with most PUMA shoes, it is both durable and flexible. Best of all, it offers optimal grip, which is great for wet surfaces. t was made of (leather) fabric. The thermal comfort of this model has been carefully balanced all year. Convenience and comfort daily are hallmarks of Universal shoes Puma, which is years of designers’ expertise and tens of thousands of hours of testing.
NIKE AIR FORCE 1 PREMIUM “SOUTH KOREA WORLD CUP”
Nike released a series of team-inspired color palettes to commemorate the 2006 World Cup, including the Air Force 1 ‘South Korea World Cup,’ which features South Korea’s colors. The 2006 World Cup was a big deal for South Korea, and the sneakers showcase a stylish style that includes Deep Royal tones on the patent leather heel and Grenadine highlights on the Swoosh, laces, and outsole. The insole has a unique design that shows the team’s jersey.
NIKE AIR MAX 97 “NEON SEOUL”
Gwang Shin, a graphic designer from South Korea, was one of the 2018 Nike On Air contest winners. He was the one who developed this eye-catching ‘Neon Seoul’ version of the Nike Air Max 97. The sneaker was designed to capture Seoul’s nightlife energy. It is highlighted with bright neon contours reminiscent of South Korea’s national flag.
NIKE AIR PRESTO “South Korea”
Despite vanishing from the Korean Peninsula, tigers have a long history in the country’s culture. They have inspired several national sports teams and, of course, sneakers. There was a lot of buzz surrounding this sneaker when it was initially released in South Korea. Collectors eagerly await its scarcity to rise significantly. Released to commemorate the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, this Air Presto colorway is one of the most popular for sneaker collectors. The color design is a nod to the Pusan Panthers of the Pusan American School.
