Musinsa, Korean Retailer Recognized by Vogue for Innovation

What: Musinsa, South Korea's leading online fashion retailer, founded in 2001 by Cho Man-Ho, has grown from a simple fashion community into a multifaceted e-commerce giant with a robust annual revenue.

Why it is important: Musinsa's innovative approach to retail, blending traditional e-commerce with community-building and support for local and international designers, sets it apart in the competitive Korean market. Its expansion into physical stores and the launch of its own label, Musinsa Standard, further demonstrate its influence and commitment to quality and affordability in fashion.

Musinsa began as an online fashion community and has since evolved into South Korea's largest online fashion retailer, generating USD 540 million in sales in 2022. The company has diversified its offerings by launching its own clothing line, Musinsa Standard, which is known for its basic, affordable designs and impressive sales figures. In addition to its e-commerce success, Musinsa supports emerging Korean and international designers through its physical store, Empty, and its resale platform, Soldout. Despite the challenges faced by other e-commerce giants, Musinsa continues to thrive by maintaining a strong connection with its community and innovating in ways that resonate with contemporary consumers. The company's approach highlights a significant shift towards integrated online and physical retail experiences, setting a benchmark for the industry in Korea and beyond.

The world's most innovative retailers, according to Vogue editors