Japanese 'wallet-case' decorating craze
This trend started with Japan’s MZ generation. Blending Japan’s signature decoden (ornate, sparkly embellishment) culture with wallet-case decorating, it has quickly spread through Korean online communities and social media.It ties into the so-called halmaennial (grandmother + millennial) trend — young people reimagining older generations’ styles with their own playful spin.
What MZ shoppers are obsessed with is, ironically, the wallet case’s old-school vibe. They cover the leather’s familiar texture — the kind middle-aged people favor — with Sanrio stickers, flashy beaded straps, and chunky 3D charms until there’s no bare surface left.
The clear ID window that used to hold cards is now a display for fans’ favorite idol photocards.
Rather than opting for neat minimalism, this crowd goes full maximalist: the case is decorated so lavishly it almost disappears under the bling.
Beyond looks, the wallet case still offers the practical perks it’s known for — easy card storage and screen protection. That functionality appeals to young people who tote power banks and multiple cards. Plus, there’s the bragging-rights thrill of creating a one-of-a-kind custom case, which makes these pieces collectible.
In Korea, reactions on X (formerly Twitter) and online forums range from “actually pretty” to “trends really do come back” and “it’s fun, like decorating a planner.”
Reporter Jeong Chae-heen
