About

Ko-Gyaru (Kogyaru) refers to a subculture of gyaru, primarily middle and high school girls, that peaked in the mid-1990s, characterized by dyed brown hair, miniskirts, and loose socks. In the 2020s, the "Reiwa Ko-Gyaru (KOGYARU)" movement has seen a resurgence, with elementary and middle schoolers sharing their style via social media. Key Characteristics and History 1990s (Original Ko-Gyaru): Characterized by brown hair, tanned skin (ganguro), miniskirts, and loose socks. The term originated as an abbreviation for "little gyaru" or "child gyaru" to distinguish them from the older disco-going generation (Ane-Gyaru). Characteristic Culture: They used a unique "Ko-Gyaru slang" and made full use of mobile phones and pagers. Reiwa "KOGYARU": Centered around elementary and middle school students who post makeup and fashion content on social media and video sites. In 2023, the elementary-focused gyaru media outlet "KOGYARU" was established. The word "Ko-Gyaru" is a buzzword symbolizing 1990s Japanese youth culture, and its essence is currently being carried on by the elementary school generation.