29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Footwear

ESQUIRE

Hyungji Group · South Korea

ESQUIRE is a South Korean shoe brand with more than 60 years of shoemaking tradition, owned by Fashion Group Hyungji since 2015. It makes women's and men's shoes, together with bags.

Facts
CountrySouth Korea
OwnerFashion Group Hyungji (since 2015)
CompanyHyungji Esquire Co., Ltd.
HeritageMore than 60 years of shoemaking
Websiteesquire.co.kr
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
FootwearBags
Sales channels
Department storesOwn storesE-commerce

What is ESQUIRE?

ESQUIRE (Eseukwaia in Korean) is a footwear brand from South Korea and one of the country's first generation of domestic shoe brands. It describes itself as a leading Korean shoemaking brand with more than 60 years of tradition, combining established shoemaking technique with modern design.

History

ESQUIRE was long one of the most popular premium shoemakers in Korean department stores. In 2015 it was acquired by Fashion Group Hyungji, chaired by Choi Byung-oh, and it now operates as Hyungji Esquire Co., Ltd.

Products and positioning

The range covers:

  • Women's pumps, loafers, Mary Janes and sneakers
  • Men's leather dress shoes, derbies, loafers and sneakers
  • Bags, including totes, shoulder and crossbody styles

The brand emphasises shoes that are comfortable as well as smart, with comfort lines alongside classic dress styles.

Distribution

ESQUIRE is sold through department stores, outlets and branded stores across South Korea, including tax refund shops for visitors, and through its own online store.

Why it matters

ESQUIRE is a heritage name in Korean footwear whose move into Hyungji illustrates consolidation among the country's domestic fashion brands.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns ESQUIRE shoes?

ESQUIRE has been owned by Fashion Group Hyungji since 2015 and operates as Hyungji Esquire.

Is ESQUIRE a Korean brand?

Yes. ESQUIRE is a South Korean shoemaking brand with more than 60 years of tradition.

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