For years, wearing socks with sandals was considered a serious fashion mistake. In Korea this summer, young people are turning that rule upside down.

Open-toe socks designed specifically for flip-flops are becoming trendy, covering the top of the foot while leaving the toes exposed. They originally had a practical purpose: preventing flip-flop straps from rubbing against bare skin. Now they come in cotton, knit and even lace versions and are being worn as a deliberate fashion statement.