5 Questions With K-Pop Star KARINA
- July 17, 2025
KARINA, a member of the South Korean pop group aespa, officially joins the Nike family this month. The small steps that have led to the group’s success — consistent hard work, sacrifice, and the dedication to push through obstacles — reflect the same mindset that an athlete needs to succeed, says KARINA.
We spoke with the 25-year-old artist about why taekwondo has been a lifelong instructive sport, how the Air Max Muse pairs with practically everything, and why partnering alongside Nike was a natural fit.
What’s your defining Nike memory?
As a child, I loved watching TV. It was where I first saw musical artists perform, and it fueled in me a dream to become one of the stars on that stage, who were always wearing Nikes on their feet. That was when my connection with Nike began. The brand is like second nature to me now. I’ll rock the Air Force 1 without thinking twice.
What’s your earliest memory of sport?
Growing up, I was exposed to many sports, including ballet, swimming, futsal, basketball and taekwondo, in which I earned a black belt. As you level up while earning more belts, you grow in both athletic skill and the athlete mindset. It’s in that mindset that you learn patience, you gain respect for the process, and you develop a can-do spirit. Even now, with my packed schedule, those lessons from taekwondo are still with me. They’re the foundation of my sport background, helping me stay focused no matter what situations I face or decisions I make.
What similarities do you see in your background as an athlete and an entertainer?
I believe that anyone who uses their body to move with passion and gives their best effort is an athlete. What athletes and entertainers have in common is how they pour countless hours into a defining moment, like a performance. While entertainers give their all on stage, athletes push their limits in pursuit of victory. Compared to the glorious moments of winning or performing, the hours of practice or rehearsals aren’t that glamorous. Athletes and entertainers need endurance to reach their goals, but the result is so worth it in the end.
"I believe that anyone who uses their body to move with passion and gives their best effort is an athlete."
KARINA, K-Pop Star and Nike partner
What’s your most memorable Nike shoe or piece of apparel?
It’s not an exaggeration to say that I’ve grown up with the Air Force 1 and the Dunk. My favorite Nike shoe right now is the Nike Air Max Muse in the silver colorway. I first tried them during a short trip around Europe after Milan Fashion Week. What I love most about them, aside from the comfort, is how it can elevate my whole outfit. I can pair it with a leather jacket and jeans. How could I not fall in love with a shoe like that?
What are you most looking forward to in partnering with Nike?
Nike empowers self-expression and encourages people to challenge stereotypes and forge new paths. If you’re confident in your dreams, you should keep pushing forward. Hopefully my journey combined with Nike’s message can inspire more people and bring positive influence to the world.