BTS’ V Is Wearing Wired WIRED Earphones Cool Again: Gen Z Is Obsessed

Wired earphones are back and Gen Z is turning what was once considered outdated tech into a fashion accessory.

On Korean fashion platform Zigzag, listings for “wired earphones” jumped 223 percent between June and August compared with the same period last year. Searches and listings for “string earphones” also rose 195 percent, showing just how quickly the trend is picking up.

Even tangled cables are getting a makeover. Gen Z shoppers are wrapping earphone cords around bags or clipping them onto collars, turning the once-annoying wires into part of the look.

The comeback is closely tied to the Y2K aesthetic, with colorful and futuristic designs replacing the plain white cables many people remember. Justin Bieber's tech and streetwear brand SKYLRK has also joined the trend with wired earphones featuring glowing details, purple ear tips and neon green cables. Photos of Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner wearing them helped spark even more interest.

K-pop stars are getting in on it too. BTS' V and aespa's Karina have been spotted wearing simple white wired earphones, adding to the effortless, slightly nostalgic look.

The appeal isn't just visual. Wired earphones don't need charging, are harder to lose and can cost far less than wireless models. The trend is showing signs of growing beyond Korea as well. According to market research firm Circana, U.S. wired audio sales rose 20 percent during a six-week period in early 2026 compared with the same period a year earlier.

From Y2K nostalgia to K-pop airport fashion, wired earphones are no longer just something you listen with but something you actually wear.