Karaku launched in May 2020 as an online store called Karakubuy, started by a founding team it describes as retro-wear enthusiasts and apparel design specialists. The brand's collections lean on vintage and heritage workwear references, including Wabash stripe fabrics and denim, alongside collaborations with artists. It expanded with a Korean online store in November 2023, a US online store in August 2024, and its first flagship store in Tokyo's Shibuya district in September 2024.