Translation result
Once written off as awkward cords, wired earphones have quietly become a must-have fashion accessory for young people. After the wireless-earbud boom, analog-minded wired models are getting a serious status upgrade.
When Apple removed the headphone jack from the iPhone 7 in 2016, wired earphones fell out of favor. Samsung followed with the Galaxy S20 series, and the AirPods-led wireless era went mainstream.
Now, young people are driving a wired-earphone comeback. As the appetite for analog-style products grows, these cords have moved beyond basic audio gear and become deliberate style choices.
On social platforms, posts that use wired earphones as a form of self-expression are rising, and earphone-decoration—known as ‘ikkku’—is getting its moment. Sites selling quirky cord winders and other accessories are popping up more often.
Celebrity sightings—most notably BLACKPINK’s Jennie—have amplified the buzz and pushed sales higher. Wired earphones also score points for practicality and affordability.
Sales data back the trend. According to Herald Economy, earphone transaction value on 11st rose 12% compared with the previous comparable period between the 13th of last month and the 12th of this month. Transaction value for MP3 players used with earphones jumped 63% in the same span and surged 152% year over year.
Fashion labels have been quick to react. No Manual dropped corded earphones in its 2026 S/S collection, and they sold out immediately on platforms like Musinsa, 29CM, and Cream. Brands are now taking additional preorders.
Most Commented