Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (2024)

Jun You, 26 years old, hometown — Seoul, fashion-model and actor

Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (1)

About career choice


Initially, my speciality was cooking. But I realized that I wanted to become a model and a movie actor. When I was 20 years old, I had the chance to play in a small film. My career started at that moment.

About modelling business in Korea

The modelling business in Korea has many branches. My direction is a model for advertising. The advertising modelling business integrates the major subsidiary of the company and a large shooting area for projects.

Korean model companies are small in comparison to Western counterparts. However, most closely cooperate with the world-famous model agencies.

About working conditions

I think for beginners it will be easy to find a job in this field, as many Western companies are actively looking for Asian models. Korean models feature in skin tone and colour, body proportions. If you are good looking, you will be successful in the modelling business.

Models in Korea can work for a specific company or be a freelancer. Wages and working conditions will depend on what you choose.

For beginners, it will be easy to find a job in this field, as many Western companies are actively looking for Asian models

Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (2)

If you work with the company, you will have stable shooting in various projects, but from your salary will be deducted a certain percentage for the company services. The agency also helps to improve skills. Many models go to master classes, attend acting classes, which are paid by the company.

As a freelancer, you are looking for a suitable shooting, negotiate with the employer. In this case, the profit from a particular order is greater, but it is not always possible to find orders and all the responsibility on you.

There is no specific working schedule for the models, and it all depends on the shooting process. The more you work, the harder the shooting and you get more money. A lot depends on your level and the project you are involved in. A beginner model can get $100 for one shot, while an experienced and famous model gets $1,000,000 and above.

About plans

I plan to develop further, and I want to become a successful model and call myself a professional.

Kim Jae Yoon, 19 years old, hometown — Seongnam, FIT-model, student

Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (3)

About career choice

I started modelling when I was 17. Initially, I applied for projects that interested me, passed an interview, showed my photos, answered a few questions. After that, I was approved as a model.

Fit-model is a kind of mannequin, which helps fashion designer to understand how comfortable and practical the clothes are.

About modelling business

In Korea, many people are interested in fashion, follow the novelties and discuss new collections. Across the country opens many clothing stores, which led to a huge demand for the models' services.

In my opinion, Korea is a booming model market that will grow every year.

Two big companies in the country are widely known in model circles: YG K Plus and Fantagio. But I do not work in the company, as I prefer to be a freelancer.

About working conditions

Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (4)

Modelling is hard work that requires a lot of dedication. The market is competitive, and everyone is trying to find a place under the sun. But if you truly believe in yourself and work hard, you have a chance to become a model. Someone may notice your enthusiasm and offer an interesting project that will help to earn a name.

I usually work six hours a week. It is quite little because I combine work and study. I think full-time models work more.

Working conditions at a high level. For example, Seoul is convenient in terms of movement, and employers during the filming offer soft drinks and food, and in winter warm clothes before fitting. Such care pleases.

If you plan to develop in the modelling business, you need to learn foreign languages. This will help to find new customers from other countries.

If you plan to develop in the modelling business, you need to learn foreign languages

About plans


I'm not exactly sure what I'm going to do in the future. Working as a model is short-lived.

While I am working as a model, I will learn more foreign languages. At the moment I speak Korean, Japanese and English, and in March I will start studying Spanish. I am sure knowledge of foreign languages will help me to achieve success.

In addition to modelling, I want to open an organization that will teach foreign languages to poor children for free. Knowledge of foreign languages can be their strong point, which will open the way to a bright future.

Seoyoung Pyi, 24 years old, hometown — Seoul, model

Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (5)

About career choice

I started modelling when I was 21. My brother is a photographer and at that time he was looking for a model for his portfolio. He asked me for help, and I agreed. It was my first experience in professional shooting. I was pretty good at it, so I decided to try to be a model.

About modelling business

Korea provides many jobs for models. You can become a model for online stores or try to become a model for shows. It all depends on you, and the chance to get a job is great.

There are two large model companies in the country, through which all large orders pass. This is Esteem and YG K Plus. If you want to participate in a major shooting, you need to get in these companies.

About working conditions


Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (6)

Modelling business is a stressful environment where patience is necessary. The main quality of the model is stress resistance. During the filming process, everyone is tired and nervous, so do not take to heart the emotional criticism of the leadership or other colleagues. All of this is only part of the work that needs to be taken for granted.

Modelling business is a stressful environment where patience is necessary

Beginners in the modelling business can go through the hard way or easily get to the top. It all depends on your appearance and the direction you have chosen. If your physical characteristics and direction match perfectly, success is not far off.

About plans

I plan to work as a model and develop my skills to proudly call myself a professional.

Models in Korea. About active development of the modelling business and the income (2024)

FAQs

How to be a successful model in Korea? ›

Models with average heights are also accepted. Female models with height 5.5-5.6 can be easily accepted. Male models with 5.10 heights are accepted. The only thing that the agencies see is that you have a good personality and acceptable looks. You should only have good skin and a good body.

Who is the famous model in Korea? ›

1. Lee Sung-kyung, 32

Lee, who made her modelling debut in 2008, is one of South Korea's most successful models-turned-actresses-slash-singers. Early in her career, Lee walked numerous runways at Seoul Fashion Week, becoming a favourite of streetwear and menswear brands because of her swagger.

Can Americans model in Korea? ›

Modeling in Korea as a local or foreigner can lead to tons of unique opportunities. You get to try on stylish clothes for a living and meet all sorts of interesting people from around the world. Best of all, modeling agencies are always looking for new talent in Korea.

Is modelling a good career in South Korea? ›

There are a lot of opportunities and benefits for becoming a model in Korea, a tons of Korean brands are actively looking for new fresh talents and are also willing to pay a huge price for the right talents. Even if you have no experience in modelling, you can still get hired if you have the persona they looking for.

How much does a model get paid in Korea? ›

The average salary for a Modeling is ₩3,24,58,996 in Seoul, South Korea.

How much do successful models make? ›

How much does a Professional Model make? The average salary for a professional model in the United States is $236,556. Professional model salaries typically range between $89,000 and $624,000 a year. The average hourly rate for professional models is $113.73 per hour.

Who is a model in BTS? ›

Kim Tae-hyung, better known as BTS' V, is a musician by profession but a model by hobby.

Who is the most beautiful Korean Instagram model? ›

  • Instagram: @within_eyeshot. Followers: 16.9K.
  • Instagram: @lyricaldaniel. Followers: 17.6K.
  • Instagram: @sweetiezin. Followers: 18.9K.
  • Instagram: @dazebin_ Followers: 20.8K.
  • Instagram: @donghhee_ Followers: 29.5K.
  • Instagram: @kang_hyukk. Followers: 41.5K.
  • Instagram: @keemdani. Followers: 62.9K.
  • Instagram: @jiyong0604. Followers: 77K.

Which country is good for modeling? ›

The U.S. is one of the best countries for landing modeling work of all sorts. If you are considering a career in modeling, you should first determine what kind of modeling you're interested in. There are several different types of models. Some pose for photographers or artists.

Which country is best for models? ›

Paris, France

Paris, the city of lights, is probably one of the best and most beautiful places to model. And, of course, there are many modeling opportunities.

What country are most models from? ›

Top models

Did you know that Estonia produces more fashion models per capita than any other country in the world with about 74 models per one million people? It certainly doesn't hurt that Estonians are the 3rd tallest people in the world, according to a century-long study.

What is the most paid job in Korea? ›

The highest-paid job in 2021 is a corporate leader (CEO) who will make an average of about 140 million won(110,000 USD) per year.

What is the most wanted job in Korea? ›

(i) Teaching English in Korea

Teaching English in Korea is the most popular job for foreigners.

Is it difficult to get a job in Korea? ›

Although getting a job in South Korea may not be as easy as it is for an English teacher, it is still possible. However, do bear in mind that there is no single way for you to land a job in this country. Also, note that not every method will work for everyone.

What are the 4 types of models? ›

9 types of modelling explained
  • Runway models. A runway model works most commonly on the catwalk, which is the runway at fashion shows where designers showcase their work, such as a new clothing line. ...
  • Fashion/editorial models. ...
  • Commercial models. ...
  • Photographers. ...
  • Textile designers.
May 11, 2023

What is the highest paying modeling? ›

What is the highest paid model job? Editorial and runway fashion models who can attain supermodel status are the highest paid models. Supermodel status comes with a certain degree of celebrity factor that can play a big role in raising a model's fees.

How much does a Gucci model make? ›

While ZipRecruiter is seeing salaries as high as $189,830 and as low as $10,415, the majority of salaries within the Gucci Model jobs category currently range between $37,900 (25th percentile) to $94,700 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $136,337 annually in Iowa.

Do models get to keep the clothes? ›

6. Despite getting to wear the most beautiful, expensive, glamorous outfits, models unfortunately don't actually get to keep the clothes. Sometimes you may get lucky and get to keep something, but this rarely happens. 7.

Do models get paid right away? ›

Clients pay anywhere between 30 and 90 days, although we just had a client who was five months past due and we got paid. Generally it's 30 to 90 days. Some pay right away. It depends if it goes through payroll or through Europe,” she said.

How many hours do models work a week? ›

Hours/Travel

Often work very irregular hours. Most jobs are during the day, but some outdoor photo sessions may be at night or early in the morning. Work less than 40 hours a week. Must travel to auditions and bookings.

Who is the top model idol in Korea? ›

Jungkook has topped the 'Forbes Korea Model Idol' list in the magazine's November 2021 edition. Forbes also described the globally loved singer with his several talents as he is the group's main vocalist, lead dancer, and the group's sub-rapper.

Which BTS member is a Gucci model? ›

Dior has tapped Jimin, a member of BTS, as a men's brand ambassador and "Wednesday" star Percy Hynes White attended his first fashion show over the weekend — Gucci.

What does BTS mean in Modelling? ›

Behind the Scenes (BTS) videos are a popular item that many commercial clients as well as others desire as part of a professional photo shoot.

Who is the most handsome model in Korea? ›

Jump to:
  • 이수혁 (Lee Soo-hyuk)
  • 김원중 (Kim Wonjoong)
  • 남주혁 (Nam Joo-hyuk)
  • 장기용 (Jang Ki-yong)
  • 주우재 (Joo Woo Jae)
  • 성준 (Sung Joon)
  • 도상우 (Do Sang-woo)
  • 김우빈 (Kim Woo-bin)
May 2, 2023

Who has no 1 Instagram followers in Korea? ›

Top Instagram Influencers
#@UsernameFollowers
1LISA @lalalalisa_m93.8M
2J @jennierubyjane78.9M
3BTS official @bts.bighitofficial73.1M
4JISOO @sooyaaa__72.7M
66 more rows

Who is the biggest Korean influencer? ›

Top Instagram Influencers
#@UsernameFollowers
1Red Velvet Official @redvelvet.smtown12.1M
2한소희 @xeesoxee12.1M
3정해인 @holyhaein10.9M
4SUHO @kimjuncotton10.7M
65 more rows

Who is the most successful female Korean celebrity? ›

Blackpink's Lisa is the most successful K-pop female artist. She is also known to have the best style. Who is the most popular female solo artist in K-pop? IU is the most popular female solo artist in K-pop and is also considered Korea's best soloist.

What do most modeling agencies look for? ›

Many modeling agencies and cosmetic brands look for a symmetrical face with even features. Because shots are extreme close-ups, so casting agents will be on the lookout for detailed face features like eyes, lips, eyebrows, cheekbones, and jawlines. Many successful models do not have these qualities.

What ethnicity are most models? ›

The most common ethnicity among runway models is White, which makes up 55.8% of all runway models.

Where do most models start? ›

If you're looking to get started in the modeling industry, you might be considering going to a modeling school. However, it's not a must. In fact, many models start their modeling career by simply submitting their headshots to agencies and scouts.

Who is the #1 model? ›

Kendall Jenner is the top model in the World. Kendall Jenner is an American Mannequin. She is also a U.S gold medalist as Decathlon winner.

Who is world no 1 female model? ›

Kendall Jenner, the current top model in the world, was born on November 3, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, in the United States. Kendall Jenner is a mannequin made in America. She is a gold medalist for the United States in the decathlon.

Is it hard to become model in USA? ›

Modeling is a competitive industry that requires dedication and perseverance. Modeling jobs can be hard to come by, especially those in high-fashion. To become a professional model, it's essential to learn the necessary requirements of the job.

Where do models live in USA? ›

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a close second to New York City. In the City of Angels, you have the same advantages as in New York. Job prospects are high, and there are many modeling agencies to sign you up to. There are also many fashion designers and photographers living in Los Angeles.

Where do most models live? ›

New York City - The modeling capital of the U.S. and always a contender for modeling capital of the world. NYC has a perfect blend of art, theater, film, television, music, advertising, population, and professional brands. 2. Los Angeles - A very close second.

What is the lowest paying job in Korea? ›

Average Salary

The survey showed that poets have the lowest average income among all occupations in Korea, making only around 4,700 USD annually.

What salary is considered rich in South Korea? ›

According to a survey conducted in South Korea in 2021, around 34.5 percent of millionaires surveyed stated that households with a minimum annual income of 500 million South Korean won or more can be perceived as rich.

How much does Korea pay per hour? ›

The minimum wage in South Korea has increased from KRW 7,530 in 2018 to KRW 9,620 per hour in 2023. Although South Korea's minimum wage has increased in the 5 years between 2018 and 2023, the rate of on-year increase has fluctuated, and primarily follows a downward trend.

What is the easiest job to get in South Korea? ›

A teacher is the most accessible and great job to land for a foreigner. In particular, if you are teaching English in South Korea as a second language (ESL).

Can I work in Korea without speaking Korean? ›

Well, the short answer is… yes. Of course, there's a lot more to it than that. Living in Korea as an expat and not knowing the language is definitely possible, but there are times when you'll be left speechless and struggling.

What kind of jobs can foreigners get in Korea? ›

In addition to teaching English, other sectors where expats will find a lot of opportunities are in IT, general office administration jobs, manufacturing, and careers related to health, science, research, and technology.

How much is rent in South Korea? ›

In February 2021, the average monthly rent for one-bedroom flats in Seoul, South Korea, amounted to around 510 thousand South Korean won, up from about 480 thousand South Korean won in the previous month.

Is it hard to live in Korea? ›

In general, moving to South Korea is easy as long as you are prepared before your arrival. Although the country has a long history of not preferring foreign migration, those sentiments have changed as Korea has started to welcome more and more international companies through its borders.

Can you get a job in Korea as a foreigner? ›

To work in South Korea or stay there for longer than 90 days, you must get a visa before leaving your home country. There are different types of work visas depending on the type of job.

What is the ideal model weight in Korea? ›

In fact, many people have even referred to the standard of beauty in Korea as unobtainable, as the ideal height of 162 cm (approximately 5 feet and 4 inches) and weight of 42 kg (about 93 pounds) is outside the reach for many, due to the strict exercise and diet regimen necessary to attain and maintain such a figure.

Who is the best model in Kpop? ›

Jungkook has topped the 'Forbes Korea Model Idol' list in the magazine's November 2021 edition.

How can I be successful in modeling? ›

9 Tips for Becoming a Model
  1. Recognize your strengths. Being a model involves hyperfocus around your appearance. ...
  2. Understand the duties of the job. ...
  3. Take care of your appearance. ...
  4. Get headshots. ...
  5. Create a portfolio. ...
  6. Find a modeling agency that fits your brand. ...
  7. Try a modeling school. ...
  8. Look for open casting calls.
Sep 7, 2022

What visa do I need to be a model in Korea? ›

Most international incoming models usually have a C4 visa. C4 visas are issued in 3 month contract periods. The visa allows to you come and work in Korea for a maximum of 3 months.

What are Korean model sizes? ›

A standard mannequin in South Korea is 1.75m to 1.8m tall, has a waist measurement of 24 inches and a hip measurement of 35 inches.

How much does an average Korean girl weigh? ›

In 2021, the average weight of South Korean women aged 19 years or younger lay at 59.87 kilograms. Women across all age categories tended to have similar weight averages, with the exception of women aged 80 years and older, who weighed significantly less.

What is overweight for girls in Korea? ›

Therefore, the following modified BMI cut points are commonly used for analyses of the Korean population: underweight (<18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5-22.9 kg/m2), overweight (23.0-24.9 kg/m2), and obese (≥25.0 kg/m2) [24].

Who is K-pop model queen? ›

Lalisa Manobal, known as Lisa, is a rapper and dancer most famous for being a member of the South Korean girl group Blackpink.

Who is the cutest K-pop idol? ›

1. Stray Kids' Han. 앙뇽~~???? With his soft cheeks and round eyes that seem to shine in any light, there's no doubt that Stray Kids' Han is super cute!

Who is super model in BTS? ›

Kim Tae-hyung, better known as BTS' V, is a musician by profession but a model by hobby.

Which modeling job pays the most? ›

Lingerie models

Victoria's Secret model salary is one of the highest in the industry.

What skills do models need? ›

What it takes
  • the ability to work well with others.
  • active listening skills.
  • to be flexible and open to change.
  • physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace.
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
  • the ability to organise your time and workload.
  • concentration skills.

What visa do models use in the USA? ›

Fashion Models typically enter the United States on the H-1B3 visa or the O-1B visa. While both will allow a model to work in the United States, there are important differences between the two visa types. The H-1B3 visa is available to models who can demonstrate a reputation of distinguished merit and ability.

How old do you have to be to get a working visa for Korea? ›

The application and visa process MUST be made at the Consulate of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in your country of citizenship. You MAY NOT apply for the working holiday visa in Korea. You must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application. You must not have a criminal record.

What is the biggest talent agency in Korea? ›

SM Entertainment has traditionally taken the lead in terms of size, number of artists, and revenue. SM is also regarded as having led the proliferation of the K-pop phenomenon around the world with prominent K-pop artists such as Girls' Generation, EXO, SHINee, Red Velvet, and NCT.

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