Exclusive: Gold Star Announces Strategic Collaboration with ENHYPEN’s NI-KI for Limited Edition 3D Ice Collection

TOKYO – In a move that bridges the gap between high-end confectionery innovation and the global K-pop phenomenon, Gold Star, the renowned Japanese sweets manufacturer, has officially announced a groundbreaking collaboration with NI-KI, the celebrated lead dancer and youngest member of the global supergroup ENHYPEN.

Starting June 24, 2026, Gold Star will launch an exclusive, limited-edition line of "3D Fruit Ice" and "Bero Bero Bar" gift boxes. This strategic partnership is designed to leverage NI-KI’s immense influence among Generation Z consumers, blending sensory-rich product design with the digital-first engagement strategies that define modern fandom culture.

A Synergy of Innovation and Global Stardom

The collaboration marks a significant milestone for Gold Star as it seeks to revitalize its brand image among younger demographics. By integrating NI-KI’s aesthetic sensibilities and artistic flair into the product development process, Gold Star is not merely releasing a snack; they are curating a lifestyle experience.

"We wanted to create something that transcends the traditional confectionery market," said a spokesperson for Gold Star during the announcement. "By aligning our technical expertise in 3D-molded ice production with the creative vision of an artist like NI-KI, we are reaching fans on an emotional level that traditional marketing simply cannot touch."

The product line, which features intricate, life-like 3D fruit designs and the iconic "Bero Bero" bar format, serves as a testament to the intersection of food technology and celebrity branding. The campaign will be supported by a robust social media push, utilizing exclusive, behind-the-scenes content that showcases NI-KI’s personal involvement in selecting flavor profiles and packaging designs.

Chronology: From Concept to Consumer

The partnership was not an overnight endeavor. The project represents months of meticulous planning, coordination, and creative alignment between Gold Star and BELIFT LAB, the agency representing ENHYPEN.

• June 12, 2026: Gold Star initiated the preliminary teaser phase, releasing cryptic social media snippets that hinted at a collaboration involving "a dance icon."
• June 24, 2026 (Morning): Official press release and campaign launch. The public debut of the "3D Fruit Ice" and "Bero Bero Bar" gift boxes via the Gold Star digital storefront.
• June 25, 2026 (17:00 JST): Official commencement of pre-orders for the general public, with high traffic expected across all digital retail channels.
• July 2026 and Beyond: A series of promotional events, including digital fan-sign opportunities and exclusive content drops, are scheduled to roll out throughout the summer, ensuring sustained engagement with the fan base.

Supporting Data and Product Specifications

Gold Star has structured the release into two distinct tiers to cater to both casual consumers and dedicated collectors. Each box is designed as a premium "Gift Box," emphasizing the gifting culture prevalent in Japan during the mid-summer season.

Product Tiers

The retail price is set at 3,000 JPY (tax included) per box. To maintain exclusivity and demand, the company has implemented a purchase limit, ensuring that as many fans as possible have the opportunity to acquire the limited-edition merchandise.

Furthermore, Gold Star has integrated a lottery-based reward system. Customers who purchase the boxes are automatically entered into a draw to win one of 50 limited-edition signed items, or 100 secondary prizes featuring exclusive, high-quality digital assets.

Official Responses and Strategic Vision

The collaboration has been met with immediate enthusiasm from the K-pop community. NI-KI, who is widely recognized as one of the most talented dancers of his generation, expressed his excitement regarding the project.

"Working with Gold Star allowed me to explore a side of design and product curation I hadn’t touched before," NI-KI stated in a press release. "I wanted the ice bars to reflect the energy and color that my fans associate with our music. Seeing the 3D designs come to life was an incredible process, and I hope everyone enjoys them as much as I enjoyed creating them."

From a business perspective, Gold Star is positioning this move as a core component of their "Digital-First 2026" strategy. By utilizing NI-KI’s massive social media reach, the brand aims to drive traffic to their e-commerce platform and strengthen their presence in the competitive Japanese youth market.

Implications for the Confectionery Industry

This partnership signals a broader trend in the food and beverage industry: the shift toward "Identity-Based Consumables." Brands are no longer competing solely on taste or price; they are competing for cultural relevance.

The K-Pop Influence on Consumer Behavior

ENHYPEN’s trajectory, marked by their multi-million selling studio albums like ROMANCE: UNTOLD and the massive success of their BLOOD SAGA world tour, demonstrates a level of fan loyalty that is unprecedented. When a brand like Gold Star aligns itself with a member of this group, they are essentially tapping into a pre-vetted, highly active, and globally connected community.

Digital Integration and Rarity

The inclusion of digital collectibles (NFT-style or exclusive digital content) alongside physical goods is a strategic response to the demand for "phygital" experiences. By limiting the availability of these boxes, Gold Star is creating a sense of scarcity that drives immediate sales while simultaneously generating buzz that travels far beyond the domestic market, reaching ENHYPEN’s international fan base.

About ENHYPEN and NI-KI

ENHYPEN, a six-member group formed through Mnet’s I-LAND, has consistently topped global charts since their 2020 debut. Known for their intricate performance art and thematic storytelling, they have become a cornerstone of the HYBE MUSIC GROUP roster.

NI-KI, born in 2005, is recognized for his exceptional dance prowess. His journey from a young trainee to an international star has been well-documented, and his individual popularity has been a key factor in ENHYPEN’s recent successes in the Japanese market, including their highly anticipated "BLOOD SAGA" tour dates in Japan.

Final Outlook

As the release date approaches, the market is bracing for a surge in demand. Gold Star has confirmed that they have ramped up production to handle the anticipated traffic, but they remain committed to the "exclusive" nature of the collaboration.

The partnership between Gold Star and NI-KI is more than a summer promotion; it is a masterclass in modern brand integration. By leveraging the intersection of high-quality Japanese craftsmanship and the global power of K-pop, Gold Star is effectively setting a new standard for how traditional brands can remain relevant in an increasingly digital and influencer-driven economy.

Fans are encouraged to monitor the official Gold Star social media channels for real-time updates regarding stock availability and additional campaign details. For those looking to secure their "3D Fruit Ice" or "Bero Bero Bar" gift boxes, the countdown has officially begun.

For media inquiries, please contact the Gold Star Public Relations Department.