Counterfeit goods has always been a recurring problem in the world of high-fashion, and that has led to some brands gaining popularity for designs that are similar to the big brands, but with their own twists to them!

One such brand is Korean fashion label - PLAYNOMORE, much beloved by Korean fashionistas on a budget for its Hermès-like designs, at a much cheaper price point.

However, after a back and forth legal dispute between the French fashion house and PLAYNOMORE, it seems that the Korean label have found themselves on the back foot. This sparks a discussion about whether the addition of design motifs deserves protection from the law.

Read on for more with this article from the Korea Herald!

Left : Hermès, Right : PLAYNOMORE - spot the difference?

French luxury fashion house Hermès gained the upper hand in a lawsuit against Korean fashion label Playnomore, alleging copyright infringement of its signature handbags Kelly and Birkin.

Playnomore is recognized for its use of neon colors and “eyeball bags”.

The Supreme Court on Thursday confirmed a ruling saying that Playnomore violated the act of “unfair competition”, copying Hermes’ iconic handbag designs. The Supreme Court returned the case to the Seoul High Court.

The lawsuit between the two labels has gone on for the past five years, since Hermes Korea sued Playnomore in 2015 for exploiting the popularity and renown of Hermes‘ signature designs.

PLAYNOMORE uses the 'eyeball' motif on all of its bags, which is a distinguishing feature for their products - which won them the case in the Seoul High Court. However, it proved not to be enough at the Supreme Court level.

While the first ruling was in verdict of the defendant, the Seoul High Court ruled Playnomore not guilty, citing its display of pop art designs as unique.

In its ruling Thursday, the Supreme Court said, “If Playnomore continues to produce and sell the same products as Hermès’ in Korea, some demand for Hermes products may be substituted (with Playnomore products) or potential consumers may give up on purchasing Hermès products due to the decline of scarcity and value in Hermès’ products.”

While Hermès’ Kelly and Birkin bags cost from 30 million won ($24,920) to 100 million won, Playnomore handbags usually cost around 400,000 won.

“This suit will have a heavy impact on the fashion industry,” an official from the Supreme Court said. 

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