Do you like binge-watching K-dramas until the wee hours, blasting K-pop, and learning all the viral dance moves? If so, you’re definitely riding high on the Korean pop culture (hallyu) wave. And as an avid consumer, you might be interested in how these celebrities obtain these Korean beauty standards.
Think of your favourite Korean celebrities, whether music idols or actors: do they have similar looks? It’s highly likely – and, no, you’re not imagining it. Modern beauty standards in Korea are a hot topic of discussion, especially where skincare, makeup, cosmetic surgery, and physical fitness are concerned. It’s normal to be curious about what it takes to be “beautiful” according to these metrics, especially if you’re a fan of the country’s biggest celebrities.
Here, you’ll learn about the most common markers of beauty in South Korea and the stars who embody them. Plus, find out how you can work toward them in a healthy, sustainable way if that’s something you aspire to.
What are some of the Korean beauty standards today?
Before diving deeper into these traits, it’s essential to remember that not everyone will consider these qualities the epitome of beauty. That said, the focus here is on the Korean beauty standards females perpetuated in popular culture.
1. Fair, radiant, and blemish-free skin
The Korean skincare industry is booming. Unlike in Australia where a tan is seen as a beauty symbol, in Korean culture many people are after the ethereally soft, smooth, and near-translucent skin of superstars like IU, Song Hye-kyo, and Bae Suzy. While skincare can help you get closer to this “glass skin” look, you might need to undergo several rounds of professional treatments to achieve the same poreless effect.
2. Slim, slender, or toned physique
Members of top K-pop groups like BLACKPINK and TWICE are often model-skinny or svelte with an athletic build. They usually have visible abs, toned legs, and tiny waists. Many of these idols keep rigorous training schedules and follow strict diets to stay trim.
3. Small, V-shaped face with a tall, narrow nose
Korean beauty standards for females celebrate the “V-line face,” defined by a slim yet sharp jaw that ends on a pointed chin. Hani and Yoona, both South Korean singers and actresses, are known for having this face shape. While nose preferences are more varied, most desire tall and thin ones.
4. Large, bright eyes with double eyelids
A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal estimated that 50% of East and Southeast Asian women are born with monolids. In South Korea, the majority have them, which may be why many covet double eyelids. As a result, blepharoplasties (eyelid surgery) are extremely popular as a cosmetic procedure. They give the appearance of wide, doe-like eyes, as seen on idols like BLACKPINK’s Lisa and ITZY’s Yuna.
5. Straight, white teeth and a unique smile
The “Hollywood smile” isn’t exclusive to Hollywood. Straight, white teeth are desirable everywhere, including in South Korea. However, they’re not enough to truly stand out. What you need is a uniquely charming and confident smile. Examples include TWICE’s Nayeon with her “bunny teeth,” Kim Sejeong with her “eye smile,” and EXO’s D.O. with his “heart-shaped lips.”
Korean celebs who define Korean beauty standards
Part of the difficulty of trying to live up to Korean beauty standards is the tendency to compare yourself to the celebrities who seem to embody them. In a poll tallying over 500,000 fan votes for the most beautiful Korean actresses in 2024, the top five celebrities listed were:
1. Chae Soo-bin
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Born on July 10, 1994, this actress has starred in movies like Hijack 1971, The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure and Sweet & Sour. She’s also been in the drama series The Fabulous, Rookie Cops, A Piece of Your Mind, Where Stars Land, I’m Not a Robot and Bluebird’s House. Chae Soo Bin’s look is characterised by clear, luminous skin and a shy smile.
2. Go Youn-jung
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Actress and model Go Youn Jung, born April 22, 1996, is best known for her roles in the movie Hunt and the TV series Death’s Game, Sweet Home, Moving and Alchemy of Souls. IMDB lists the actress’s trademarks as “elegance and graceful on-screen presence” and “striking facial features.”
3. Song Hye-kyo
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Model-turned-actress Song Hye Kyo was born November 22, 1981, and has gained fame both in South Korea and internationally. She got her first acting job in 1997 and has gone on to star in several series and movies, including award-winning roles in Descendants of the Sun and That Winter, the Wind Blows. Even in her 40s, the actress remains a beauty icon; IMDB mentions she’s known for her “visibly glowing porcelain skin” and “plump lips.”
4. Jisoo
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Global K-pop sensation BLACKPINK’s lead vocalist Jisoo was born on January 3, 1995. The Dior global ambassador is known for her beauty and her distinct heart-shaped lips.
But in an interview for Harper’s Bazaar Australia, she was quick to remind fans – “Doubting yourself and asking, ‘Am I really fine?’ and constantly comparing yourself to others is not good for you, in any part of your life. Certainly not for your health. Above all, it is important to look at yourself and recognise how much you’ve improved, how much you’ve grown from before. I believe this is how true beauty is created: from the inside out.’
5. Park Bo-young
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This actress born on February 12, 1990, is well-known for her award-winning roles in Scandal Makers, Oh My Ghost and Strong Girl Bong-soon. Other notable filmography include roles in series Strong Girl Nam-soon and Daily Dose of Sunshine and movies A Werewolf Boy, Hot Young Bloods and On Your Wedding Day.
Notice anything about these celebrities? If it’s that they tick most, if not all, of the Korean beauty standards listed above, then you’d be right.
How to meet Korean beauty standards in healthy, realistic ways
It should go without saying that beauty standards in Korea and elsewhere are ever-changing and often unattainable by design. It’s human nature to strive towards beauty ideals, but remember that comparing your looks to those of on-screen idols can be a slippery slope.
Don’t become obsessive about fitting into a mould. Instead, develop a body-positive approach to looking and feeling your best, and make healthy choices for your mind and body. Start here.
1. Commit to a balanced diet and exercise routine.
Say no to crash diets and zero rest days! No matter your weight goals, work with a licensed dietitian to determine the right meal plan for your needs. They’ll help you pinpoint what you should add to your diet to address any specific issues. The same goes for workouts. While there are resources online, it’s better to get tailor-fit insights from a trainer.
2. Stay consistent with skincare and other personal care habits.
Approach your skincare routine like the self-care ritual it is. Cleansing, moisturising, and wearing sun protection do wonders for your skin health and give you a “glowing” look.
Don’t hyper-fixate on your blemishes! Treat them, but know that everyone gets breakouts because everyone has pores. Brush and floss daily, keep tangles out of your hair, and take regular showers. Never underestimate the power of good personal care to make you look – and feel – like a star.
3. Invest in professional treatments and services.
Most celebrities have teams to make them look the way they do. Yes, even those who radiate effortlessness. While there’s a lot you can do yourself, getting professional help can get you next-level results. If skin is your top concern, see a dermatologist for a consultation.
And if it’s the perfect smile you want, consider seeking orthodontic treatment for a straighter, healthier bite. At your next dental checkup, speak with your dentist about your options, to find the right teeth-straightening option for you. Getting a smile makeover can go a long way to boosting your confidence as it’s said a confident smile is the ultimate accessory.
For a discreet (read: almost invisible!) teeth alignment option, you may want to ask about ClearCorrect aligners. Unlike traditional braces, they’re clear, removable, and a comfortable solution for crooked teeth. They use ClearQuartz, a resilient tri-layer material, and come with a high, flat, unscalloped trim line that makes them hard to spot in photos and social encounters unless you’re looking closely.
Get one step closer to your perfect teeth by answering this smile assessment.
4. Work on your self-image and keep building confidence.
As clichéd as it sounds, beauty truly starts from within. What’s the value of looking good if you don’t feel your best, too? While working on your appearance, don’t forget to address any lingering self-esteem issues that hinder your confidence. Open up to friends, recognise your strengths, and remember that looks aren’t everything, despite what pop culture will have you believe.
Korean beauty standards are no different from those anywhere else – they’re also incredibly exclusive and hard to attain. As tempting as it is to want to transform yourself to look like your idols, it’s much healthier and more satisfying to appreciate your own beauty.
References:
Dunbar, J. (2023, March 8). Foreign residents struggle with Korea’s ‘impossible’ body standards. Koreatimes.
Hwang, H., Spiegel, J. (2014). The Effect of “Single” vs “Double” Eyelids on the Perceived Attractiveness of Chinese Women. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 34, Issue 3, Pages 374–382.
Jin, A., Whithall, I. (2022). A look at South Korean plastic surgery. Harvard Medical Student Review.
Koreaboo (2024, March 8). The 15 Most Beautiful Korean Actresses of 2024, According To Over 500,000 Fan Votes. Koreaboo.com
KingChoice (n.d.). Most Beautiful Korean Actresses 2024. Kingchoice.me
Internet Movie Database. (n.d.). Chae Soo-bin. imdb.com
Internet Movie Database. (n.d.). Go Youn Jung. imdb.com
Internet Movie Database. (n.d.). Song Hye Kyo. imdb.com
Internet Movie Database. (n.d.). Jisoo. imdb.com
Internet Movie Database. (n.d.). Park Bo Young. imdb.com
Harper’s Bazaar. (2022, April). BLACKPINK’s JISOO uncovers the meaning of beauty. harpersbazaar.com.au
