Jennie showcases Korea’s rich cultural heritage in ZEN, blending traditional Silla and Joseon-era elements with modern aesthetics. The music video highlights influences from Wonhwa, Silla’s golden crowns, and traditional hairstyles like Eoyeo-meori and Tteoljam. Through bold reinterpretations, Jennie presents Korean fashion and symbolism in a globally appealing way.
Jennie Reinterprets Silla’s Wonhwa in “ZEN”
Jennie from BLACKPINK presents a modern take on Korea’s traditional beauty in her solo music video ZEN. She incorporates elements from Silla-era fashion, accessories, and hairstyles, reimagining the powerful female leader Wonhwa. This artistic approach transforms Korean heritage into a striking visual statement, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics.
The Meaning of ZEN and Its Connection to Jennie
The title ZEN (禪) reflects deep philosophical meaning, drawing from Buddhist meditation and enlightenment. It also plays on Jennie’s name, linking personal identity with a broader spiritual concept. The combination of traditional themes with a modern pop setting showcases K-pop’s ability to globally reinterpret Korean culture in innovative ways.
Discussion on the Styling of Jennie in ZEN
Jennie’s styling in ZEN sparked discussions on platforms like Instiz. Fans admired her bold fashion choices and praised the luxurious designs, joking that the music video looked expensive enough to require paid viewing. Many also sought detailed explanations of the Korean cultural symbols embedded in her outfits, highlighting a growing interest in traditional aesthetics.
Symbolism in Jennie’s Outfit
Korean brand LEJE designed Jennie’s outfits with Wonhwa in mind. Wonhwa were influential female leaders in Silla, known for their charisma and political power. Her elaborate top, inspired by Silla’s golden crowns, was adorned with over a thousand handcrafted metal ornaments. The soaring Jujak motif added both elegance and strength.
Traditional Hairstyles and Accessories
Jennie’s hairstyle resembles Eoyeo Meori, a style worn by noblewomen in Joseon. Modernized with waves and a rounded shape, it retains traditional elements, such as braids framing the face. She also wears Tteoljam, decorative hairpins, adding to the regal aesthetic.
Modern Take on Korean Fashion
Her outfit includes a reinterpreted Salchang Gojaeng-i, a traditional undergarment originally designed for ventilation. The design features bold cuts and volume, enhanced with metalwork and jade details inspired by Silla’s golden crowns. This fusion of past and present underscores the timeless appeal of Korean aesthetics.
Jennie’s ZEN music video proves that “Korean heritage is the most global.” By incorporating traditional elements into her fashion and performance, she brings Korea’s cultural legacy to the world in a strikingly modern way.
Thank you so much for reading this post! I’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to share them in the comments!
OMG, a dress made from a Silla gold crown?! And the headpiece is from the Joseon era? So freaking cool! Plus, all the accessories and the hairstyle, with those Korean history vibes, it’s beyond classy, it’s straight-up art! Seriously, the best!