Korean female models have taken the world by storm! With their chic looks and effortlessly cool style, there is no doubt why the whole world has fallen for these incredible women.
Many of them have become trailblazers in letting the world appreciate Asian beauty, and many also remain fashion icons to this day. Here we’ve compiled just 30 of the hottest Korean female models for you to get to know!
1. Jang Yoon-Ju
We’re starting things off strong with undoubtedly one of the most iconic Korean female models of all time! When Jang Yoon-ju debuted in 1997, she pioneered the “classic Asian look” that took the world by storm. With classic chic features, a slim body line, and a showstopping catwalk, Jang Yoon-Ju is the definition of a true supermodel. She has even modeled alongside the likes of Kate Moss and Carla Bruni!
You may also know her from her other ventures into the entertainment industry. She’s the host of Korea’s Top Model and fun fact, she even appeared in K-Pop group Aespa’s “Black Mamba” music video!
Instagram: @yoonjujang
2. Irene Kim
Next up we have Korean-American model Irene Kim. She debuted in 2012 on the runway for Jardin de Chouette. Since then, she has worked with incredible designers like Mulberry, Ferragamo, Chanel, and much more.
What makes Irene Kim stand out is her fun and approachable personality which you can see on her Instagram! She’s also become famous as an influencer for her positive outlook and great fashion tips. In 2018, she launched her fashion label called IRENEISGOOD.
Instagram: @ireneisgood
3. Song Kyung-A
Song Kyung-A is another iconic Korean female model. She debuted just one season after Jang Yoon-Ju and is no doubt just as much of a legend. Her tall figure as well as her unique look that blends both Eastern and Western features make her stand out from any crowd. She was the first-ever Korean female model to work in the overseas fashion industry all the way back in 2004, paving the way for many models after her.
She’s known for her amazing portfolio filled with unrivaled photo shoots. What makes Song Kyung-A really stick out is her unparalleled skill at creating drama just for one photo. Rookie newbies today still look up to Song Kyung-A’s versatility and wide variety of poses.
Instagram: @1stsong
4. Park Soo-Joo
If you spot bright blonde hair on a Korean catwalk, then they’re probably inspired by Park Soo-Joo. She is known for her signature hairstyle which made her stand out among other models. Park Soo-Joo’s strong personality and unique vibe have made her one of the most successful Korean models of all time.
She was the first ever Korean model to be the face of L’Oreal, as well as the first to attend the Cannes Film Festival. She has also modeled for top luxury brands like Chanel and Tom Ford.
Instagram: @soojmooj
5. Park Hyerim
Next up we have another trailblazer in the industry: Park Hyerim! She was the first ever Korean model to book the renowned magazines Vogue Italia and Vogue Paris. She’s also posed for big international campaigns for brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Tiffany & Co., Max Mara, and more.
Her big break came when she was cast to walk in Prada and Miu Miu shows during the Milan Fashion Week. This made her the first non-Caucasian model since Naomi Campbell to walk the show–and just the second female Asian model to ever walk for Prada!
Instagram: @iam_hyepark
6. Han Hye-Jin
Han Hye-Jin is a familiar face not just in the fashion world, but in the entire Korean entertainment industry. She first started her career as a runway model, and her unique runway walk immediately caught the eye of many brands and designers. She even walked for New York Fashion Week for three consecutive years!
Han Hye-Jin is one of Marc Jacobs’ muses, having walked for his show six consecutive times. She was also the first Korean model to walk for Gucci, Michael Kors, and Tommy Hilfiger.
While her modeling career is still staying strong, Han Hye-Jin has also ventured into Korean variety shows. Her fun and relatable personality attracts many viewers to her. You can see her more natural side on shows like “I Live Alone,” “Life Bar,” and more. She’s also made a name for herself as a host for shows like “Heart Signal 3” and “Cohabiting, Not Married.”
Instagram: @modelhanhyejin
7. Kim Sunghee
Kim Sunghee didn’t always want to be a model. When she was young, she rigorously trained to become a ballerina. While she still loves dancing even now, she has accepted that maybe a career in professional dance isn’t for her.
When she was 21, her friends encouraged her to join the show “I Am A Model,” where she proudly finished in the top three. This kickstarted her career in modeling, and now she has become one of the trailblazers in the Korean modeling industry.
She became the first Asian face for a Miu Miu campaign in 2013, photographed by the legendary Steven Meisel. Nowadays, she enjoys skiing and picture-taking while maintaining her career as a top model.
Instagram: @_sungheekim
8. Kim Won-Kyung
Our next model may be a bit of a hidden gem, but that doesn’t make her any less of a superstar! Most people know Jang Yoon-Ju, Song Kyung-A, and Han Hye-Jin, but many forget that they had another contemporary named Kim Won-Kyung. Together, these four powerful women led the “Mulan Era” in the modeling world.
With an impressive career spanning over 20 years, Kim Won-Kyung has modeled for magazines such as Vogue, W, Elle, and more.
Instagram: @won.kim.07
9. Kwak Ji-Young
Kwak Ji-Young’s classy timeless beauty has made her a household name. Those gorgeous features have graced the pages of Elle, Elle Bride, Marie Claire, Vogue, and more. Kwak Ji-Young knows that as a model, you can’t just rely on a pretty face. You have to know how to work every part of your body to create drama for the camera, and Kwak Ji-Young is an expert at doing so.
And fun fact, did you know that she’s happily married to fellow model Kim Won-Joong? Talk about a power couple! We bet their babies will grow up to be just as beautiful as both of them.
Instagram: @kwak_jy
10. Kang Seung-Hyun / Hyoni
Unlike her contemporaries who went on the editorial route, Kang Seung-Hyun aka Hyoni became a commercial icon instead. Her round features and lovely demeanor makes her the perfect pick for commercial campaigns. She’s been on the covers of Vogue, Teen Vogue, Marie Claire, and more.
She first debuted in 2008 when she opened for Philip Lim in New York City. In the same year, she won Ford’s “Model of the World” award at just 19 years old, making her the first-ever Asian model to win this title.
This powerhouse doesn’t just stop at modeling. In 2009, Kang Seung-Hyun launched a vintage fashion brand called Reborn Princess. She herself redesigns new pieces from handpicked thrift store items found all over the United States. Her dream is to make her collections “one of a kind” so that Reborn Princess can evolve into a multi-brand shop.
Instagram: @hyoni_kang
You May Also Like: How Much Do Kpop Idols Earn
11. Park Ji-Hye
Park Ji-Hye’s showstopping height and delicate, catlike features are just some of the reasons why she’s one of the top models working today. With looks that can fit both soft and editorial concepts, Park Ji-Hye’s versatility shows why she has become so successful.
She’s modeled for luxury designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and much more. Off-duty, she’s known for her casual and comfy style and is also beloved as a street style icon.
Instagram: @jihyeparkjhp
12. Lee Hyun-Yi
Lee Hyun-Yi has made a name for herself as an entertainer in various Korean TV shows like “I Can See Your Voice,” “Kick a Goal,” “Supermodel 2022 Contest: Next Level,” and more. But before she became a silver screen darling, she first became known as a famous model during her time.
She debuted in 2005 after winning a supermodel contest. Since then, she has modeled for top designers like Prabal Gurung, Hermes, Jean Paul Gautier, and more. Aside from modeling and appearing in variety shows, she also debuted as a sitcom actress when she was 37 years old, proving that it’s never too late to try something new in life. With her signature bob haircut and sophisticated beauty, this determined go-getter remains an inspiration for many models all over the world.
Instagram: @lee.hyunyi
13. Lee Sung-Kyung
If you’re a fan of K-Dramas, then this name should definitely be familiar! Starring in the worldwide hits “Dr. Romantic,” “Cheese in the Trap,” and of course “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo,” Lee Sung-Kyung has become one of the most beloved actresses of her time.
But before she was a top Hallyu star, she was more accustomed to the catwalk. She debuted as a model back in 2008 after competing in a local supermodel contest. Her bright image and one-of-a-kind features make her the perfect face for brands like Chanel, Laneige, and more.
Instagram: @heybiblee
14. Kang So-Young
With a unique blend of Western and Asian features, we have the top model Kang So-Young! She truly has one of the most unique profiles among Korean female models. Her unusual beauty has made her become the muse of many powerhouse brands. Most notably, she’s known for being adored by the late fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld.
She debuted back in 2004 after winning a Supermodel Contest. She is also known as the first Korean model to walk the Chanel fashion show twice in a row.
Instagram: @iamsoyoung33
15. Kim Jinkyung
If you’re a fan of Korea’s Next Top Model, then you’ll definitely know Kim Jinkyung! Against some pretty stiff competition, Kim Jinkyung still placed as the runner-up, so that’s how you know she’s the real deal.
Her fame grew even more when she debuted in a web-drama called “Yellow.” Since then, she has also made a name for herself as a TV personality by appearing in shows like “We Got Married,” “Knowing Brothers,” and more.
Instagram:@jinkyung3_3
16. Lee Hye-Jung
For those who love girls with a sporty side, we present model Lee Hye-Jung! Before she became famous for the runway, she was first a darling of the basketball court. Her tall height made her the perfect basketball player, but now she enjoys posing for top magazines instead of putting in 3-point shots.
Lee Hye-Jung’s super skinny physique and unique visage made her the muse of many top designers, including fashion legend John Galliano. Aside from modeling, you may also recognize her from her acting ventures in “Vincenzo,” “The Archaeology of Love,” and more.
Instagram: @sweetyhye
You May Also Like: The 19 Most Beautiful Korean Actresses
17. Choi Ara
Next up we have the beautiful Choi Ara! Filled with youth and vibrance, Choi Ara is a model known for her commercial spreads and editorial photoshoots. Her stunning natural freckles make her stand out from other models, and she proudly showed them off in several magazines like “Vogue Korea” and “Nylon.”
Aside from modeling, she also loves getting in touch with nature as you can see on her Instagram page. She also has a Youtube channel called “HereAra” where you can keep up with her daily life as she travels the world as a top model!
Instagram: @araraach
18. Baek Jiwon
Baek Jiwon’s gorgeously tanned skin, doll-like features, and deep dimples make her simply gorgeous! She’s known for bringing a sophisticated yet approachable vibe in all her photoshoots, making everyone want the clothes she’s wearing.
You can see her radiance right on her Instagram page, where she has a warm, “girlfriend-like” vibe. Aside from her skill at modeling, she’s also a talented artist who loves sharing her drawings and paintings on social media.
Instagram: @ji.wonderful
19. Choi Sora
There’s not a model in Korea who doesn’t know Choi Sora’s name. She was catapulted to stardom when she won Season 3 of Korea’s Next Top Model. Since then, she has only been gaining popularity as a model with unique charisma and aura.
She was handpicked to walk in the Louis Vuitton cruise show in 2014, which also marks her international debut. Her stunning performance led Louis Vuitton creative director Nicolas Ghesquiere to personally ask her to become the first South Korean model to be the brand’s city exclusive for Paris Fashion Week.
Since then, she has modeled for Alexander Wang, Prada, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Valentino, and much more. Her alluring goth style, complete with dark clothes and face piercings, make her stand out from other models.
Instagram: @sola5532
20. Chaeeun Sarah Lee / Chaeeun Rock
Just one look into this freelance model’s Instagram page, and you will surely be clicking on the follow button in no time. A model as gorgeous as her can come off as intimidating, but actually, she has a really goofy and relatable personality!
She first debuted as a model in 2013, and since then has only gotten more and more success. Her fresh girl-next-door looks make her the perfect model for many skincare and lifestyle brands. But before that, she was known as a sizzling hot bombshell for her red-hot bikini and underwear shoots.
Aside from modeling, you can also keep up with her daily life as a mom to an adorable baby, and as an activist advocating for pet adoption!
Instagram: @rockchaeeun
You May Also Like: 30 HOTTEST Korean Male Models
21. Shin Hyun-Ji
Next up we have another Korea’s Next Top Model alumna: Shin Hyun-Ji! Known as the winner of Season 4, she has since catapulted to fame both locally and internationally. She often works in Korea, as well as in Australia and other places abroad.
Just in her debut season, she walked for several shows including Prada and Miu Miu. Since then she has been cast for luxury ad campaigns for brands such as Chanel, Calvin Klein, MaxMara, and more.
She’s also known as the first Asian model to close out the main Chanel show back in 2020. Truly a trailblazer of her time!
Instagram: @iamhyunjishin
22. Lee Hojung
Don’t be fooled by our next model’s age. Despite her youth, she’s known as a veteran in the modeling field! She debuted when she was just 15 years old when she was chosen for a pictorial for the magazine Ceci. Since then, she has modeled for Marie Claire, Nylon, and more.
But despite her success, Lee Hojung had some rough beginnings. As a child, she first dreamed to become a flight attendant. In school, she was also known as the sporty one who always excelled in swimming and athletics. Then when she watched Korea’s Next Top Model in eighth grade, she soon started harboring the desire to become a fashion model.
The problem? She was considered short at the time! Despite her lacking stature, Lee Hojung believed she could pose well and expresses the designs of the products she wanted to model. Her perseverance and ambition led her to become one of the top models today.
Instagram: @holly608
23. Lee Hye-Seung
Next up we have the alternative darling, Lee Hye-Seung. Her striking features and intense aura make her the perfect editorial model. She’s also known for her skill at creating different shapes with her figure to catch the eye of the viewers.
Her high cheekbones and unflinching gaze are the definition of high fashion! She’s been on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar, Elle Korea, Them Magazine, and more. She’s also known for being an exclusive model for Celine back in 2016.
Instagram: @_hyeseunglee
24. Esom
Up next we have model-actress Esom! Her lanky tall lanky frame, wideset eyes, and bow-shaped lips make her stand out. But above all, it’s her cute and charming personality that has captured the hearts of thousands.
She channeled her skill in front of the camera to become a respected actress today. Her impressive portfolio includes the movies “Microhabitat,” “Samjin Company English Class,” “Kill Boksoon,” and more.
Instagram: @esom_
25. Jin Jung-Sun
Jin Jung-Sun’s stunning looks and chic charisma made her the effortless winner of Season 2 of Korea’s Next Top Model. After winning, she took over the magazines and the runways, known as the successor to icon Jang Yoon-Ju.
She’s graced the covers of W, Harper’s Bazaar, Dazed, and more. With her signature red lip and smoky eyes, Jin Jung-Sun can switch between friendly commercial model vibes, to more artistic editorial photoshoots. She was even selected by Vogue Korea as the next-generation top model, and we couldn’t agree more!
Instagram: @jinjungsun
26. Bae Yoon-Young
You can spot Bae Yoon-Young’s distinct doll-like face from a mile away. Her round features and piercing eyes make for an interesting contrast. This made her stand out at the 2015 Seoul Fashion Week, and since then she has only been gaining more and more popularity.
Her natural freckles, cat-like eyes, and high cheekbones are just to die for! This stunningly gorgeous girl has grown up to be a classy and sophisticated woman. Known as a “runway queen,” she’s walked for incredible brands like Fenty x Puma, Versace, Coach, Burberry, and more.
Instagram: @mulan_bae
27. Hwang Se-On
This next model-actor powerhouse seemingly came from nowhere! Her rapid rise to the top may shock many, but her skill and beauty speak for themselves. Her stunning sunkissed skin, slim figure, and gorgeously sculpted bone structure make her a true top model of her time. She was also known as the first Korean cover girl for the prestigious Vogue Australia.
Aside from modeling, Hwang Se-On is also known as an actress. She’s been in “Romance is a Bonus Book,” “Madame Antoine: The Love Therapist,” “The King: Eternal Monarch,” and more! Her star is still on the rise, and this stunning and talented woman is only destined for even greater things.
Instagram: @seonihwang
Read More: Why Korean Celebrities Don’t Get Married
28. Shin Min-Ah
Our next top model may be more familiar as one of Korea’s most beloved actresses. As one of the leaders of the Hallyu Wave, she’s been on top hits like “My Girlfriend is a Gumiho,” “Oh My Venus.” “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” “Our Blues,” and more!
But actually, she started her career as a teen model! When she was just 14 years old, she became a model for the teen magazine KiKi. Since then, she has grown to become one of the most in-demand commercial endorsers in the entire country. Her captivating beauty, matched with those signature deep dimples, makes her a true representative of Korean beauty.
She was chosen as the first Asian model for the American clothing brand Rag & bone. She’s also done shoots for Elle, Calvin Klein, T Magazine, and more. Recently, she was also chosen to do a high-profile campaign for Gucci.
Shin Min-Ah shows us that her beauty and star power just get better with age!
29. Jun Ji-Hyun
When talking about modeling, we can’t miss talking about this absolute icon. Jun Ji-Hyun is one of the most well-known female models in South Korea. Known as the “nation’s first love,” and “Korea’s sweetheart,” she’s also a widely celebrated actress in addition to being a top fashion model.
Jun Ji-Hyun’s timeless beauty has graced the covers of Ecole, Elle, W, and more. She also appeared on American Vogue as their first-ever Korean ambassador. In 2021, she was even named the highest-paid Korean celebrity!
Her acting credits include legendary roles in “My Sassy Girl,” “My Love from the Star,” “The Legend of the Blue Sea,” “Kingdom,” and more.
30. Jung Ho-Yeon
Last but definitely not the least, we can’t end this list without talking about the international sensation Jung Ho-Yeon! She skyrocketed to worldwide stardom with her role in the megahit “Squid Game,” which was also actually her acting debut!
But before being an up-and-coming Hollywood actress, she was already making a name for herself as a model. She participated in Season 4 of Korea’s Next Top Model before gracing the Seoul Fashion Week catwalk. Every model knows they have to do everything to stand out, and Jung Ho-Yeon did just that. Before making her international debut, she dyed her hair a fiery red which soon became her signature color.
The “red-haired Asian” caught the eye of many designers, including Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Alberta Ferretti, and more. She has also walked for Bottega Veneta, Schiaparelli, Roberto Cavalli, and Gucci among others, proving her star power.
Known as the worldwide “It Girl” of 2021, Jung Ho-Yeon remains a beloved viral sensation, and the whole world is looking forward to what she does in the future.
Instagram: @hoooooyeony
—
What did you think of our list? Which Korean female model caught your eye the most?
With unmatched charisma and chicness, Korean female models have been taking the world by storm. Their gorgeous looks matched with a unique effortless vibe have taken them to catwalks and photoshoots all over the world.
Make sure to also check outer post about The Trendiest Korean Fashion Styles That Took Over The World.