Summary
In South Korea, people in their 40s, known as "Young 40s," are being teased online by Gen Z for trying to adopt younger fashion trends. This online mockery includes viral caricatures and memes, highlighting a generational divide in cultural spaces and fashion preferences. The term "Young 40s" initially referred to health-conscious and tech-savvy individuals but has taken a negative turn on social media.
Key Facts
- "Young 40s" is a term used to describe people in their 40s in South Korea who follow youthful fashion trends.
- Gen Z in South Korea is mocking these individuals for trying to dress and act younger than their age.
- Viral memes have depicted these older individuals wearing brands popular among younger people, like Nike and Stüssy.
- The release of the iPhone 17 marked a backlash against people in their 40s using products associated with youth culture.
- Apple's market share among Gen Z in South Korea decreased by 4%, while it increased by 12% among people in their 40s over the past year.
- The social media trend points to a broader cultural friction between younger and older generations in South Korea.
- "Young 40" originally had positive connotations in marketing as a demographic that was active and embracing technology.
