HoYeon Jung
Explore the inspiring journey of Jung Ho-yeon (HoYeon Jung) — South Korean model turned breakout actress. From Seoul runways to Netflix’s Squid Game, learn her biography, style evolution, and memorable quotes.
Introduction
Jung Ho-yeon (commonly stylized as HoYeon Jung) (born June 23, 1994) is a South Korean model and actress who gained global recognition through her breakout role as Kang Sae-byeok (“Player 067”) in Netflix’s Squid Game.
Her journey spans the worlds of high fashion, K-drama, and acting. What makes HoYeon stand out is her seamless transition from modeling to a compelling acting career, while retaining her strong fashion identity. Her story inspires many who aim to bridge multiple creative fields.
Early Life and Family
Jung Ho-yeon was born on June 23, 1994, in the Myeonmok-dong neighbourhood, Seoul, South Korea.
Her parents are restaurateurs, running what is sometimes described as a neighborhood soup (“gukbap”) joint.
She has siblings (two sisters, and occasionally reports of another sibling) — though she is the most publicly known among them.
Growing up, she did not come from a fashion-industry family; her entry into modeling was largely self-driven.
Youth and Education
HoYeon attended Dongduk Women’s University (College of Performing Arts), majoring in modeling.
Before that, she began modeling training early — accounts suggest she started modeling classes around age 15, and by 2010 (about age 16) she was working freelance in modeling in Seoul.
She walked shows at Seoul Fashion Week for two years as a freelance model, before joining agencies.
In 2013, she participated in the 4th season of Korea’s Next Top Model, finishing as the runner-up — a significant stepping stone in her modeling career.
Modeling Career: Rise to International Stage
Early Years & Korea Foundations
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Operating independently in Seoul without an agent, she built her portfolio through local shows and photoshoots.
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Her hair, dyed a striking fiery red, became a signature look, helping her stand out in the modeling circuit.
International Breakthrough
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In 2016, she made her international runway debut during New York Fashion Week (Opening Ceremony S/S 2017 show).
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That same year, she walked as an exclusive model for Louis Vuitton at Paris Fashion Week — a prestigious opportunity.
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Over the years, she walked for major global brands: Chanel, Marc Jacobs, Fendi, Max Mara, etc.
Ambassadorship & Fashion Influence
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In 2021, she was named global ambassador for Louis Vuitton (for fashion, watches, and jewelry).
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She has also been associated with other luxury brands in campaigns and editorial spreads (Chanel, Hermès, etc.).
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“New Supers”, recognizing her as part of the next generation of supermodels.
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In 2019, she won the Asian Star Award at the Asian Model Awards.
Her fashion presence remains strong — she continues to blend runway, editorial, and brand work even as she advances in her acting career.
Acting Career & Breakout Moment
Transition into Acting
Although modeling was her primary focus, HoYeon endeavored to prepare for acting:
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While working overseas, she took acting lessons periodically and practiced English to expand her skills.
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In January 2020, she was signed by Saram Entertainment, marking a formal step into acting.
Squid Game and Global Stardom
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In 2021, HoYeon made her acting debut with the Netflix series Squid Game, portraying Kang Sae-byeok (Player 067).
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She auditioned for the role remotely while in New York, later re-auditioning in person.
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To prepare for the role, she studied North Korean defector dialects (Hamgyŏng), watched documentaries about defectors, and practiced martial arts.
Her nuanced performance made her a fan favorite and breakout star.
Acting Accolades & New Projects
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For Squid Game, she won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series — a historic win for a non-English show.
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She was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
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In 2024, she was awarded the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism’s Commendation at the Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards for her impact.
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She has taken on roles beyond Squid Game:
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A cameo in Chicken Nugget (2024) as a food blogger character.
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A role in the Apple TV+ miniseries Disclaimer (2024).
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She is set to make her theatrical film debut in The Governesses (A24) and has also signed on for Hope (2025) by director Na Hong-jin.
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Her evolution as an actress is still unfolding, and many in global entertainment watch her next moves closely.
Legacy and Influence
HoYeon Jung’s influence bridges fashion and film. Some of her key legacies include:
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Cross-industry success: Her ability to maintain relevance in fashion while making a credible transition to acting is rare and inspiring.
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Cultural representation: Her rise contributes to global visibility for Korean creatives, especially models and actors from non-Western backgrounds.
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Breaking barriers: She achieved wins and recognition (e.g. SAG) for works not in English, pushing boundaries for international stars.
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Fashion as identity: Her signature red hair, distinct style, and fashion-forward presence influence trends and younger models.
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Inspiration for multi-disciplinary artists: Many who wish to cross from modeling to acting or multiple creative fields see her as a role model.
Personality, Style & Approach
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Authentic and grounded: Despite fame, in interviews she often reflects on her roots, humble beginnings, and the emotional challenges of being abroad.
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Fearless in expression: She once said:
“There is definitely no fear. When I first went abroad as a model, I felt like I was heading to the ground, but now I think I can make a clearer plan and approach it flexibly.”
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Appreciative of audience connection:
“Just the fact that so many people around the world are showing their interest puts me in a good mood.”
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Emphasis on growth over perfection: In several interviews, she speaks about learning from each project, staying open to new challenges, and balancing her modeling legacy with acting ambitions.
Her fashion sense is bold yet nuanced — she mixes statement pieces with minimalistic elegance, and frequently uses her styling to reflect both strength and vulnerability.
Famous Quotes of HoYeon Jung
Here are some memorable quotes and reflections attributed to HoYeon Jung:
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“There is definitely no fear. When I first went abroad as a model, I felt like I was heading to the ground, but now I think I can make a clearer plan and approach it flexibly.”
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“Just the fact that so many people around the world are showing their interest puts me in a good mood.”
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(From Vogue interview) On her emotions about Squid Game’s impact: she described drawing on loneliness from modeling abroad to contribute emotional depth to her character.
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(From Vanity Fair) On her career pivot: “You are just lucky to be cast. … your only concern is doing your job.”
These statements reflect a mix of self-awareness, humility, ambition, and emotional insight.
Lessons from HoYeon Jung
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Don’t limit yourself to one identity
Her shift from modeling to acting shows that talent and curiosity can bridge creative domains. -
Stand out by being yourself
The decision to adopt the red hair, take bold styling risks, and maintain personal authenticity has differentiated her in modeling and acting. -
Preparation and empathy matter
Her attention to dialects, backstory, and emotional context in Squid Game shows that deep character work is crucial, even for debut roles. -
Lean into vulnerability
She has acknowledged loneliness, imperfection, and the pressures of public life — making her journey relatable. -
Growth mindset
She continues to challenge herself rather than rest on her successes, pursuing diverse acting roles and evolving her creative voice.
Conclusion
HoYeon Jung’s story is one of transformation and ambition. From walking Seoul runways as a teenager, to becoming a fashion muse, to delivering a critically acclaimed acting debut, she is a modern icon of multi-discipline artistry.
Her future promises more — both in the fashion world and cinematic stories yet to be told. If you like, I can also provide a timeline of her modeling to acting projects, or a list of her best editorials and shows. Would you like me to?
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