By Rita Johnson
Let’s be real: supporting your favorite K-pop group can be expensive, especially if you listen to multiple groups. While Weverse Shop is a great hub for buying merchandise, shipping prices can be crazy expensive! Not only that, but sometimes the K-pop merch seems to scream “I’M A K-POP FAN” (which is totally cool if you’re into that kind of thing). Searching for subtle, high-quality K-pop merch can be difficult.
Instead, here are some smaller shops started by K-pop fans who are creating unique merch perfect for any budget!
Private Paradise Co.
This is my favorite place to buy fan-made BTS merch! Founded and designed by an ARMY (the name of BTS’ fanbase), Private Paradise Co. specializes in cozy sweatshirts and high-quality jewelry. Their merch is a subtle way to show off your K-pop pride, with references to your favorite BTS songs and the seven members. From their purple “Bulletproof” sweatshirts to their Whalien 52 earrings, you’re sure to find something you’ll love! Private Paradise Co. also has a growing Tomorrow X Together collection, perfect for any multi-group fan.
You can check out their Instagram @privateparadise.co or their website to browse their products.
HoneyTiaStudio
If you’re looking for room decor, this is the place for you! HoneyTiaStudio specializes in making prints of your favorite K-pop albums that you can frame and hang on your wall. From Stray Kids, Tomorrow X Together, ATEEZ, BTS, Blackpink, to custom prints and more, you’re sure to find something to please your music taste!
You can check out their Instagram @iam_honeytia or their Etsy store to see their prints.
mochimoni
If your jean jacket or backpack is in need of a little personalization, why not add a cute enamel pin? Mochimoni makes beautiful pins that combine food and K-pop, so you can rep your favorite groups with subtle references. From a “Carat Cake” pin representing Seventeen to a milk carton referencing GOT7 and more, it’ll be hard not to buy them all!
You can check out their Instagram @mochimoni_ or their website to see their whole collection.
Jes-Keith
This shop sells the most beautiful stickers I have ever seen! Perfect for your laptop or water bottle, these waterproof vinyl stickers are sure to draw eyes for their stunning colors. These hand-drawn works of art have something to please every K-pop multi-fan. From IU to LOONA and more Jes-Keith offers tons of fantastic art you’ll be dying to get your hands on.
You can check out their Instagram @betteroffwithart or their Red Bubble store to see all of their designs.
MinMenu
Clear, plastic phone cases are always in need of a little makeover, and what better way to do it than buy a themed sticker pack to rep your favorite K-pop idol or K-drama actor/actress! Each set includes images, stickers, and a background for you to mix and match to your liking. While this might not be a subtle way to show off your favorite K-pop group, it certainly is the most aesthetic!
You can check out their Instagram @min.menu_8 or their Etsy store to see all of their products.