Renowned BTS Hanbok Designer Kim Rieul Passes Away at 32

Kim Rieul, the celebrated designer known for creating hanboks for the global sensation BTS, has passed away at the age of 32.

On the 12th, a media outlet reported that Kim's family confirmed his passing, stating, "Kim Rieul died yesterday." The family has yet to disclose the cause of death, promising to release a statement in the future.

According to reports, the Namwon Police Department received a call at 9:10 PM the previous day. However, by the time the police and emergency services arrived, Kim was already deceased.

Kim Rieul was the visionary behind the hanbok brand 'Rieul,' established in 2016. He gained international attention in October 2020 when BTS members Jimin, Suga, and J-Hope wore his designs on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' during their performance of 'IDOL.'

The late designer also collaborated with prestigious brands and institutions such as McLaren, Samsung Galaxy S21, Gyeongju Kolon Hotel, and the Cultural Heritage Administration. Kim was recognized by Forbes as one of the '30 Under 30' influential figures in Asia.

Reported by Min-Kyung Lee, Ten Asia