When we first met S.COUPS together with RIMOWA, it was back in 2024 in Seoul, South Korea, on the occasion of the brand's launch of its Essential colours for that particular season. Something with that initial partnership must have sparked a deeper connection, because two years later, we found ourselves back in the city for another seasonal Essential colours launch—Umber, and Ultramarine—with S.COUPS again in attendance. In between, he had been pictured with various RIMOWA designs, from suitcases to the Groove leather bags.
But perhaps, this latest pairing of S.COUPS and RIMOWA is the most resonant thus far. The bold yet warm colours of the Umber and Ultramarine echo the kind of depth that S.COUPS—who has guided the 13-men-strong SEVENTEEN as its leader for many years—embodies. The two new colours are referenced from the art world, with Umber reflecting the natural earthy pigment often used as the first layer in paintings, and Ultramarine the vibrant blue derived from lapis lazuli. Together, they form a dialogue between the natural world and imagination, and the endless possibilities of artistry. And who recognises this better than an artist continuing to elevate the sound of K-pop? Combining catchy pop with hip-hop beats and influences, S.COUPS' artistry isn't one-note. You'd hear him go hard, rapping on tracks such as "LALALI" and his solo, "Jungle"; and actual melodic singing like on "AH! LOVE" and even as far back as his trainee days.
There's no denying that S.COUPS still has a very long road ahead of him in his journey as an artist, with plenty to discover and experiment with. For now, that journey looks to be one that's colourful, especially with RIMOWA as company. But what does the future hold or even look like? Only time will tell...
Editor: Sung Hayoung
Photography: Park Jongha
Videography: Lee Dongwook
Styling: Kim Jiyoung
Hair: Lim Jungho
Makeup: Sohn Gayeon
Set Styling: Kim Sojung
Assistant: Kim Minho
