Korean-style baby jewelry, such as a necklace engraved with a baby’s footprint or a first-birthday ring, is gaining popularity among American grandparents as gifts for their grandchildren.

Korean brand Kaiu (www.kaiujewlry.com) is at the forefront of this trend. 

Kaiu, which started online, more recently made its way into Korea’s upscale department stores and posh shopping districts. Now, the company is expanding its presence in other Asian countries and North America.

In order to do so, Kaiu has teamed up with Korean e-commerce solution provider Cafe24 (www.cafe24.com), where online stores provide assistance in English, Chinese and Japanese so that foreign customers can buy products sold in the Korean market.

The products are made with “rare silver” that does not oxidize, and boast smooth and simple curved surfaces designed for babies’ sensitive skins.

Some of its bestsellers include “Simplestick,” a bracelet engraved with the customer’s baby name, and tiara-shaped bracelets and necklaces.

Kaiu has opened in Japanese e-commerce site Rakuten, and also plans to expand to China and Hong Kong.

Hyunmi Kim, CEO of Kaiu, said that an increasing number of American and Chinese customers were showing an interest, and stated, “Unique Korean-style jewelry will appeal to many customers overseas.”

By Sang Youn-joo
(sangyj@heraldocorp.com)