Established in 2016 as Ageless Einzelgänger LLC in New York, Kié Einzelgänger underwent a transformative rebranding in 2019, marking its relocation to Antwerp, Belgium. The name Einzelgänger, which translates from German as "a person who walks alone," resonates deeply as the brand’s philosophical core, articulating a commitment to radical individuality and autonomy. This notion of solitary defiance and self-determined expression is intricately woven into every collection and visual project, infusing each piece with a profound sense of independence, introspection, and a subtle touch of dark humor.

At the core of Kié Einzelgänger’s creative vision lies an intellectual and aesthetic engagement with the visual arts of the Interwar Period (1920s-1940s), particularly the subversive currents of Surrealism and Dadaism. Drawing inspiration from the audacious, often absurd comedy of these movements, the brand embraces their iconoclastic spirit, their embrace of the absurd. Since its inception, Kié Einzelgänger has meticulously researched this period, seeking not only to preserve its avant-garde sensibilities but to reinterpret them for the complexities of contemporary society.

The brand’s design philosophy unfolds like a cinematic narrative, deftly weaving the enduring elements of the Interwar period with a bold, contemporary sensibility. This fusion crafts a layered dialogue between historical homage and avant-garde innovation, each collection unfolding like a darkly comedic film, where unapologetically honest scenarios are staged with sharp irony and subversive wit, challenging both convention and expectation.

Kié Lee was born in Basel, Switzerland, in 1992, and spent her formative years split between Switzerland and South Korea and moved to New York for her Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. She lived in New York for 8 years, earned a BFA and garnered invaluable industry experience, which laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial endeavors. At the age of 23, she launched her own business with the partnership (Ageless Einzelgänger LLC 2016-2019) in New York. Her ambition culminated in the creation of a Ready-to-Wear (prêt-à-porter) collection, which she prepared to present in Paris. During this process, she made frequent trips to Japan, where she formed close relationships with fabric suppliers who supported her vision by allowing small-batch, slow-production runs—a philosophy she deeply valued for its commitment to craftsmanship and quality.

After several seasons of presenting her collections in both New York and Paris, Kié made the decision to relocate to Europe and rebrand her business under the name Kié Einzelgänger® (2019-present). This move signified a new chapter for her brand, rooted in a more global and artistic vision. In 2022, Kié earned a Master’s degree in Visual Arts from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, further solidifying her academic and creative credentials while simultaneously running her business. Looking ahead, she is preparing to pursue a PhD in Paris.

Currently, Kié Einzelgänger® is engaged in a continuing collaboration with WILDSIDE Yohji Yamamoto, a continuing partnership that commenced in July 2022. The following year, Kié has participated in the print project of Yohji Yamamoto Pour Homme AW24-25 collection in Paris. In addition, she is expanding her artistic portfolio through a series of self-portrait photography and the development of cinematic narratives, further elevating her multidisciplinary approach to fashion and fine arts.

As the brand continues to evolve, Kié focused on expanding its global presence and cultivating relationships with select stockists, all while maintaining her commitment to consistent innovation and artistic integrity.