System Takes Paris: South Korean Fashion Brand Expands in Galeries Lafayette

South Korean fashion label System is solidifying its presence in Paris with a significant expansion of its retail footprint. Following the successful opening of its flagship store in the Marais district on Rue Saintonge in mid-2024, the brand has launched a substantial corner space within the iconic Galeries Lafayette Haussmann department store.

The new space, located on the second floor of the men's building between A.P.C. and Officine Générale, mirrors the aesthetic of the Marais boutique. It also features collaborative artwork by French graffiti artist Tanc, who contributed to the design of the flagship store. This expansion represents a culmination of sustained effort, with System demonstrating strong sales performance within Galeries Lafayette’s Creative Galerie – a platform dedicated to emerging brands with high growth potential – and building on the success of a previous pop-up shop at the department store last year.

The Galeries Lafayette corner will showcase the latest designs from System’s creative director, Hee-Soo Kim, who assumed the role in 2023. Key pieces highlighted will include Kim’s signature sheer jackets, embellished knit tops with tie details, alongside leather jackets, ruffled blouses, and wide-leg trousers. System operates a co-ed collection under the “Global Collection” banner and is already available in several leading department stores globally.

While expanding its international reach, System remains strongly rooted in its domestic market. As a subsidiary of Handsome Corporation, the brand benefits from extensive exposure within South Korea. Since 2012, System has been part of the Hyundai conglomerate through its Hyundai Department Store arm, and the company has outlined plans for further expansion into Japan and other Asian markets. This growth strategy is balanced with a continued focus on creative expression, evidenced by its participation in Paris Men's Fashion Week, with a show scheduled for January 22nd.

Handsome Corporation is a significant force in the South Korean premium and luxury fashion sector, also owning the brand Time and the multi-brand retailer Tom Greyhound (which previously occupied the location now held by System’s flagship store). The company also serves as a distributor for numerous international brands, and reported revenues exceeding 1 billion euros in 2024, demonstrating its financial strength and market influence.