Automotive culture, fashion, gaming, and storytelling collided in a unique way through the new Zipangu x Forza Horizon 6 collaboration, and at the center of it all is actor and car enthusiast Sung Kang. Known globally for his deep connection to car culture both on-screen and off-screen, Kang partnered with Xbox, Zipangu, and UPRISERS LAB to help create a limited-edition jacket inspired by the atmosphere of Japan and the spirit of Forza Horizon 6.
These limited jackets were given away at the Zipangu festival to random lucky fans.
Blending handcrafted sashiko techniques, upcycled Japanese selvedge denim, LED integration, and storytelling-driven design, the collaboration represents far more than traditional merchandise. In our exclusive interview, Sung Kang opened up about Japanese craftsmanship, the emotional inspiration behind the project, and why culture-driven collaborations matter now more than ever.
A Collaboration Rooted in Culture and Storytelling
For Sung Kang, the appeal of collaborating on the Zipangu x Forza Horizon 6 project went far beyond gaming. What immediately drew him in was the project’s focus on cultural authenticity and emotional storytelling.
“What immediately stood out to me was that this project was rooted in culture, craftsmanship and storytelling rather than simply creating merchandise tied to a game,” Kang shared. “Japan is such an important part of the identity of Forza Horizon 6, and I loved the idea of translating that atmosphere into something physical through design, material and emotion.”
He also emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, praising Xbox, Zipangu, and UPRISERS LAB for approaching Japanese culture and enthusiast culture with genuine respect from the very beginning.
Building Wearable Art Through Craftsmanship
Kang explained that he was deeply involved in the conceptual side of the jacket’s creation, particularly when it came to storytelling, atmosphere, and functionality. “A lot of the ideas came from discussing Tokyo at night, movement through the city, utility and how people actually live with objects,” he explained. However, Kang was quick to credit UPRISERS LAB for elevating the vision through technical innovation and craftsmanship.
“They pushed the design far beyond what I originally imagined.”
The final design incorporates sashiko techniques and upcycled selvedge denim, elements Kang says connected strongly with his own philosophy toward intentional design. “To me, intentional design means creating something with longevity and emotional value rather than something disposable,” he said. “There’s beauty in repair, history and imperfection.”
That philosophy became central to the collaboration, with every stitch and detail carrying meaning and purpose.
Why Only Six Jackets Exist
One of the most striking aspects of the collaboration is its rarity. Only six handmade jackets were created, making each piece highly collectible.According to Kang, the exclusivity was simply a result of the intense craftsmanship required to produce them.
“These weren’t mass-produced garments,” he explained. “The LED integration, hand-sewn appliqués, custom detailing and fabrication process required an incredible amount of care and time.”
Rather than functioning as standard promotional apparel, Kang wanted the jackets to feel like “wearable art” that carried individuality and emotional value.
The Influence of Japanese Car Culture
Japanese automotive culture has long shaped global enthusiast communities, and Kang says its influence on him has been profound.
“Japanese car culture has always inspired me because it blends artistry, individuality and technical precision in such a unique way,” he shared. “There’s a deep respect for craftsmanship and personal expression within the culture.”
Whether it’s a pristine vintage restoration or an experimental custom build, Kang believes Japanese car culture always carries an emotional connection behind it — something that continues to inspire him creatively. That inspiration also extended into the visual language of the jacket itself. The piece’s soft periwinkle tones were inspired by Tokyo’s evening skies, while Kang revealed some of his most meaningful memories in Japan came from visiting shrines in Kyoto.
“The memories of going to shrines in Kyoto and learning the value of gratitude through prayer,” he reflected.
Why Japanese Street Racing Culture Continues to Inspire
When discussing why Japanese street racing culture still resonates globally, Kang believes it comes down to authenticity and identity. “Japanese street culture has always balanced rebellion with artistry in a really interesting way,” he explained. “It’s not only about speed or performance — it’s about atmosphere, style, customization and community.”
That emotional and creative depth, according to Kang, is what keeps fans around the world connected to it decades later.
Bringing Japan to Forza Horizon 6
Kang expressed excitement about seeing Japan become the setting for Forza Horizon 6, especially because of how thoughtfully the game captures the country’s contrasts.
“There’s tradition and futurism existing side-by-side. Quiet landscapes alongside neon city energy,” he said. “The game really embraces the atmosphere and spirit of the culture.” Although Kang admitted he is still new to racing games, saying “I do not. I am learning,” he already has the perfect dream car picked out for a midnight cruise through the game.
“I would choose the 1969 432 Z. Drive through Wangan at midnight.”
Connecting Fashion, Film, and Identity
For Kang, the jacket represents more than fashion. It symbolizes movement between creative worlds — gaming, film, fashion, music, and automotive culture — all unified through storytelling. “For me, the jacket represents movement between worlds,” he said. “I think the best designs feel lived-in and personal rather than manufactured purely for trend or hype.”
That same emotional philosophy also connects directly to themes explored in his upcoming film, Drifter. “Drifter explores identity, freedom, memory and connection through automotive culture,” Kang explained. “Both projects are rooted in atmosphere and emotional storytelling rather than simply spectacle.”
A Lifelong Passion for Car Culture
Over the years, Kang says his connection to automotive culture has evolved through his experiences within the car community itself. “Through meeting the car community on a personal and intimate level I’ve learned so much about not only cars but how the lessons learned helped me in my daily life.”
That perspective continues to influence how he approaches both creative projects and collaborations today.
Why Cultural Events Like Zipangu Matter
As Zipangu continues to celebrate Japanese music, fashion, gaming, and culture in the United States, Kang believes events like this are becoming increasingly important. “I think people are craving more authentic cultural experiences right now,” he said. “Zipangu creates a space where music, fashion, gaming and community can all come together through a shared appreciation for Japanese culture.”
What excites him most is how naturally younger generations move between these creative spaces. “Someone can discover music through gaming, fashion through car culture or design through film,” Kang shared. “This collaboration reflects that reality. It feels modern, collaborative and creatively open in a really exciting way.”
Through the Zipangu x Forza Horizon 6 collaboration, Sung Kang has once again shown that car culture can be about far more than machines — it can be about memory, artistry, identity, and the stories people carry with them.
Photo credit AEG/Goldenvoice, Zipangu
