BLACKPINK and aespa Karina Steal the Spotlight at Met Gala 2026

K-pop artists made a significant impact at the 2026 Met Gala on May 4, 2026, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The annual event was staged under the theme Costume Art with a dress code of Fashion is Art, prompting attendees to bring sculptural elements and heritage-inspired designs to the carpet.

All four members of BLACKPINK—Jennie, Lisa, Rosé, and Jisoo—attended the gala, each presenting a distinct interpretation of the theme. Jennie, a global ambassador for Chanel, wore a sequined blue Chanel dress paired with white Chanel high jewelry pieces.

Lisa wore a sparkling gown designed by Robert Wun, which featured dramatic 3-D-printed arm pieces draped over her shoulders and was styled with Bulgari jewelry. According to reporting from RRI.co.id, both Lisa and Jisoo were included in Vogue’s list of the best-dressed attendees for the 2026 event.

The group’s presence extended beyond the red carpet, with members appearing at the Met Gala after-party. Wolipop reported on the group’s appearance at the party, specifically noting the looks of Jennie and Rosé.

Members of the girl group aespa, Karina and Ningning, also made their official Met Gala debuts. Karina, the group’s leader, wore a custom white satin Prada dress and a black cape. The ensemble was inspired by the hanbok, a traditional Korean garment dating back to the Three Kingdoms period.

Karina, who has served as an ambassador for Prada since 2024, completed her look with Prada jewelry, shoes, and a purse. Ningning opted for a custom black Gucci gown, complemented by Gucci shoes and Bvlgari jewelry. Gucci had announced Ningning’s appointment as a brand ambassador shortly before the event.

In addition to the pop stars, other figures from the Korean entertainment industry were in attendance. EJAE, one of the voices behind the 2025 Netflix production K-Pop Demon Hunters, was among the guests who brought elements of Korean heritage to the event.

The appearance of these artists aligns with a broader trend of K-fashion gaining momentum globally. The 2026 gala highlighted the intersection of high fashion and Korean cultural influence, with several artists utilizing the Fashion is Art dress code to showcase both luxury brand partnerships and traditional aesthetic references.