SEVENTEEN’s leader S.Coups made a stunning debut at the 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The K-pop star turned heads in a hanbok-inspired outfit, blending Korean tradition with modern fashion. The event, themed “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” celebrated Black dandyism and diasporic identity. As a global ambassador for BOSS, S.Coups showcased a unique look that sparked excitement among fans and fashion enthusiasts. His appearance marked a proud moment for K-pop on one of the world’s biggest fashion stages.
The Met Gala, a major charity event since 1948, takes place every first Monday of May. It draws top celebrities from fashion, film, music, and beyond. This year’s theme drew inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. The dress code, “Tailored for You,” encouraged creative takes on suiting and menswear. S.Coups embodied this with his bold, culturally rich ensemble.
S.Coups, whose real name is Choi Seungcheol, wore a multi-layered outfit designed by BOSS. His look featured a light grey, satin-like top with a hanbok-inspired collar and a draped neckline. A darker grey, structured vest added depth, while a flowing dark coat brought dramatic flair. The ensemble’s monochromatic tones matched his ash-blonde hair, creating a cohesive and striking appearance. Accessories, including a diamond-studded watch and a ring, added a touch of elegance.
Fans, known as Carats, flooded social media with praise for S.Coups’ debut. Many celebrated his ability to represent South Korean culture on a global stage.
“Head empty, no coherent thoughts, have ascended to the heavens, I am not okay.”
“I adore the hanbok-inspired fit… he looks stunning in grey. I’m never getting over this!”
“Our leader in his hanbok-inspired outfit is out here slaying.”
The Met Gala 2025 was co-chaired by Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, with LeBron James as honorary chair. The event’s blue carpet set a dreamy backdrop for the night’s fashion moments. S.Coups’ appearance stood out as a highlight, earning acclaim for its originality. His outfit’s hanbok elements, like the collar and flowing silhouette, paid homage to Korean heritage while aligning with the theme’s focus on tailored style.
S.Coups’ presence at the Met Gala follows his recent appointment as BOSS’ global ambassador in April 2025. The German luxury brand praised his leadership and sophisticated style.
“Known for his outstanding leadership and sophisticated style, S. Coups brings a bold presence both on and off the stage, setting the tone for a powerful synergy with BOSS,” the brand stated.
His Met Gala debut was a major milestone in his growing fashion career. Last year, he attended Loewe’s Paris Fashion Week show and became a brand ambassador for the label. He also represents brands like Neogen and NARS Cosmetics in South Korea. His red carpet moment solidified his status as a fashion icon, blending K-pop charisma with high fashion.
SEVENTEEN fans were especially emotional, noting S.Coups as the first member of the 13-member group to attend the Met Gala. Social media buzzed with pride and excitement.
“I think it’s insane and so fitting that he’s the first SEVENTEEN member and the leader to come to the Met Gala.”
“We really went from S.Coups not having any brand deals to him being the first member of SEVENTEEN to walk the Met Gala. I’m so proud of him.”
“THE CONFIDENCE ON HIM IS MY GAHD HIS FIRST EVER MET GALA AND HE IS DRIPPING IN AURA.”
The K-pop star’s visuals also sparked a frenzy online. Unedited photos by Getty Images, known for raw and unflattering angles, showcased S.Coups’ striking features. Netizens praised his ability to shine under harsh lenses.
“BOSS definitely did well in dressing SCOUPS. I mean, I can tell this suit is inspired by traditional hanbok. Our BOSS SCOUPS looks like a modern-day hwangjanim,” one fan posted on X.
S.Coups’ Met Gala moment came ahead of SEVENTEEN’s fifth studio album, HAPPY BURSTDAY, set for release on May 26, 2025. The album celebrates the group’s 10th anniversary since their debut in 2015. Promotional teasers hinted at a “new tour, new unit single album, and new SEVENTEEN content.” The title, a blend of “birthday” and “burst,” reflects the group’s explosive energy and desire to reinvent themselves. Fans are eager for what’s next from the group and their leader.
The 29-year-old rapper has been a key figure in SEVENTEEN’s success. Born in Daegu, South Korea, he joined Pledis Entertainment in 2009 and trained for six years. He debuted as SEVENTEEN’s leader and head of the hip-hop unit in 2015 with the EP 17 Carat. S.Coups has contributed to over 70 songs for the group, showcasing his songwriting talent. Despite health challenges, including a 2023 knee surgery that paused his activities, he returned stronger in 2024.
His Met Gala appearance wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a cultural moment. The hanbok-inspired suit bridged Korean tradition with the event’s theme of Black dandyism. Fashion critics noted the outfit’s tailored precision and bold silhouette. The look’s grey tones and layered design stood out against the blue carpet, earning praise for its creativity. S.Coups’ confident stride up the Met Gala steps added to the outfit’s impact.
Other K-pop stars also shone at the 2025 Met Gala. BLACKPINK’s Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé made waves with their outfits, marking their first joint appearance at the event. Jennie wore a sharp Chanel black suit, Lisa rocked a pearl-decked bodysuit, and Rosé chose an oversized Saint Laurent suit. Their presence, alongside S.Coups, highlighted K-pop’s growing influence in global fashion.
S.Coups’ debut was a personal triumph and a win for SEVENTEEN. Fans noted his journey from no brand deals to a Met Gala red carpet moment. His outfit’s hanbok elements, like the mandarin collar and flowing coat, were custom-made to preserve Korean aesthetics. The look’s modern twist, with tailored vests and loose trousers, fit the “Tailored for You” dress code perfectly. His ash-blonde hair, styled in a romantic, side-swept manner, added a cinematic touch.
The event’s significance wasn’t lost on fans. The Met Gala, under Anna Wintour’s direction since 1999, is a pinnacle of fashion and culture. S.Coups’ attendance as a BOSS ambassador marked a new chapter for him and SEVENTEEN. His poised demeanor and striking outfit earned him a spot among the night’s best-dressed. Posts on X called him a “modern-day prince” and “the boss of the carpet.”
Also Read: SEVENTEEN’s S.Coups Receives Military Exemption Due to Injury; Gear Up for Encore Concert
SEVENTEEN’s HAPPY BURSTDAY promises to be a milestone release. The album’s teasers, shared on social media, featured candles spelling out “happy birthday” that morphed into “happy burstday.” The group’s 10th anniversary celebrations include new music and tours. S.Coups’ Met Gala moment has only heightened excitement for what’s to come. His ability to balance music and fashion continues to inspire fans worldwide.