San San Gear and Jian Ye Release Techwear Collaboration Based on the "Three Mystic Apes"

A new interpretation of ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’ introduces a fourth monkey, ‘do no evil’, for this capsule collection.

Seoul-based technical streetwear brand San San Gear has announced a collaboration with Jian Ye, the Tokyo-based alternative brand helmed by designer Kan Sugano.

The collection draws inspiration from the ‘Three Mystic Apes’ (see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil). Adding a fourth monkey, ‘do no evil’, to the classic symbol, the brands have built a unique concept that translates this philosophical and visual essence into modern technical gear.

The lineup includes a wide range of items, from a set-up featuring fur details to a packable jacket, hoodie, T-shirts, hats, and gloves. Among the pieces is a jacket that folds up to become a ‘monkey-shaped bag’.

A notable detail is a gimmick that allows wearers to recreate the gestures of the four monkeys depending on how they fasten the snap buttons. Additionally, some items incorporate four beads symbolizing the four monkeys as a shared detail, bringing a sense of unity to the entire collection.

The released campaign visuals depict humans and monkey-like beings coexisting in everyday scenes without acknowledging each other. By capturing both from a neutral perspective at eye level, the visuals highlight the collection’s worldview.

This collection, where the cutting-edge youth cultures of Japan and South Korea intersect, will be available starting Friday, November 6 at domestic stockists such as GR8 and PULP. In South Korea, it will go on sale the same day at 6:00 p.m. on the San San Gear official online store and KREAM. Concurrently, a three-day pop-up store will be held in Jingumae, Tokyo, starting the same day.

San San Gear × Jian Ye Pop-Up Store
Venue: Manda Bld. 2F
Address: 1-8-18 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Dates: Friday, November 6 – Sunday, November 8
Hours: Friday, November 6 and Saturday, November 7: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. / Sunday, November 8: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.