What are tooth gems and grillz? And why are they popular? In the K-pop scene, here are the artists who joined this unconventional fashion trend so far!

The fashion scene truly became so advanced that even teeth are now meant to reveal one's individual personality.

In particular, as part of the Y2K trend, "tooth gem" and "grillz" are also drawing attention from fashion people, which was originally introduced in the early 2000s.

For those who are not familiar with these, Grills (stylized as "Grillz") are metal accessories worn on teeth. The entire tooth can be covered or partially covered, and it is not permanent, so it can be worn by removing and inserting.

Although using grills is deeply rooted in the history of African-Americans, it was later on brought back by hip-hop artists as a symbol of wealth and as means to express identity.

Meanwhile, tooth gems used the method of attaching decorations with resin without separate production. It is like nail art, as they can customize the cubics to their teeth with the design they want.

Compared to grillz, tooth gems are semi-permanent, and relatively inexpensive compared to the former but use a risk-free treatment method.

As this trend spread among artists, Korean idols and K-musicians also joined this challenge, gaining huge attention from MZ Gen.

Here Are 7 K-pop Artists Who Challenged the Tooth Gem, Grillz Trend:

1. BIGBANG G-Dragon

While many hip-hop singers produced grills that reflected their own style and wore them on stage to shine their presence, G-Dragon was the main character who made grillz the most popular to the public.

He especially made headlines by wearing it during the Chanel cruise show on June 12 wherein his grills were made up of the logo of the French luxury brand.

Earlier in April, GD showcased this unconventional fashion style on his Instagram where he wore a silver grillz.

2. BLACKPINK Lisa

Among female idols, Lisa is one of the first idols who showed off a tooth gem. She particularly flaunted her silver cubics during the release of their hit track, "How You Like That" in 2020.

At that time, she was praised for her cool concept, she even tried eyebrow and lip piercings to match their concept.

3. SEVENTEEN Dino

In 2022, tooth gem attracted the attention of the K-pop enthusiasts again following SEVENTEEN Dino, who also rocked the trend.

He specifically showed off his tooth gem during their promotion for its new song, "HOT". Dino is the only member who challenged tooth gem, and he indeed stood out even more for his unique presence on stage.

4. Block B Zico

It is true that G-Dragon brought back the grillz trend in the K-pop scene, but Zico can be considered one of the people behind how this actually became a thing among idols.

Back in the 2010s, such unconventional accessories weren't widely accepted or are taboos in the K-pop industry, but amid criticism, Zico is well-known for showing up with his grillz which is not only one but a lot!

5. Lee Young Ji

Rapper Lee Young Ji who is gaining popularity as an "MZ generation icon," also showed a unique sensibility with tooth gem.

In the case of the female Korean artist many of the teeth seen from the front were attached with small cubics, and she chose a colorful tooth gem design that can catch viewers' attention at a glance.

6. Lee Hi

In March, singer Lee Hi showed off her unconventional styling wearing silver grills that resemble fangs.

7. Beenzino

In the past, rapper and K-hip-hop artist beenzino also became a hot topic for wearing grillz which added to his cool vibe.

READ MORE: Who Rocked 'Backless' Fashion Trend Best? BLACKPINK Jennie, Jeon Somi, More!

For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Eunice Dawson