About
Gentle Monster is a South Korean eyewear brand established in Seoul in 2011 by Hankook Kim. Kim's research revealed a gap in the eyewear market, noting that existing designs primarily catered to Western facial structures. Recognizing that many South Koreans preferred smaller faces, he created oversized glasses with low bridge noses, perfectly suited to his target demographic. The company achieved significant international success, directly operating over 40 stores and collaborating with hundreds of optical shops, including major retailers like Nordstrom and Harvey Nichols. Gentle Monster's eyewear is predominantly crafted from metal and acetate, featuring diverse designs and colors that change seasonally. Beyond product sales, the brand emphasizes a unique retail experience, transforming its stores into immersive spaces with striking visual merchandising and conceptual themes, offering customers an evolving brand experience akin to an exhibition. Gentle Monster has also actively pursued collaborations with notable brands such as Alexander Wang, Hood By Air, and Opening Ceremony.