K-Pop idols are making headlines across Asia, but why does this music genre appeal to many people? The short answer is that K-Pop stars are models who appear in magazines or ad covers. As the music industry in Asia continues to grow rapidly, media outlets are looking for celebrities with a huge following base just like idols have – particularly focusing on the youth market.
Over the years, K-Pop has acquired its own dedicated fanbase that frequently buys magazines, watches TV dramas or listen to radio stations just to see their favourite idol again and again!
In this article, we have compiled a list of 10 K-pop idols who have been praised for their super charming personalities and being an idol earns these artists the label ‘model material’ with good reason.
1. Kai (EXO)
The charming Kai, the centrepiece of EXO, is now steadily taking the global stage by storm with his overall good looks. The charismatic idol has garnered lots of attention because of his undeniable appearance. Having only joined kpop just very recently, however, he humbly doesn’t describe himself to be the hottest visual in kpop history, but that’s exactly what many fans are calling him “the idol of idols.”
Originally a model and musical theatre actor, he took his talents to the small screen, appearing in many hit shows. Notably, he rose to prominence thanks to his portrayal of an antagonist character in KBS’ Andante.
He also made a huge name for himself as a muse for two different cosmetics brands – Gucci, with its luxury collection dedicated entirely to him, and Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, where he became their exclusive brand ambassador.
2. JungKook (BTS)
Aside from BTS’ incredible talents and massive success, JungKook is also well-known for his striking good looks and jaw-dropping physique.
Often rated as one of the top 10 most handsome men globally, the K-Pop idol tends to make frequent appearances in magazines like BILLBOARD and ROLLING STONE when promoting brands like SAMSUNG and FILA.
3. Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO)
If you happen to know from k-pop, then there is no doubt that everyone’s favourite brilliant star is ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo.
Not only has he been the face of many a fashion magazine already, but he has also been recognized as one of the most handsome idol stars in the industry, with countless girls screaming and taking photos of him whenever they get a chance!
The dashing idol who just happens to be an absolute sweetheart is one of the most popular K-Pop idols around, complete with a likeable physique, kind demeanour, and positive attitude. He’s also known for his incredible singing skills and magnetic charisma, which have helped him nab many endorsement deals over the course of his career.
4. MinGyu (SEVENTEEN)
One of the most popular K-Pop idol globally, MinGyu is a favourite amongst the fashion industry. In fact, he has been invited to show his collection twice at Paris Fashion Week. He is known for his model-like features: height, body proportion, and striking visuals.
With a bright smile and outgoing personality, he is a favourite among fans. The charmingly energetic young singer lights up the stage every time he’s performing. But, of course, being a fan favourite, he’s often featured in magazines and on brands’ advertisements for a reason!
5. Jackson Wang (GOT7)
Jackson Wang, the entertainer in the making. As there is nothing he cannot do, and with each new performance of his, we get to see more of his versatility and charm that evoke more of our admiration for him.
With a magnetic personality and athletic physique, South Korean pop star and CEO Jackson Wang is one of the most followed celebrities on Instagram. Aside from his involvement in music, he has also been seen as a fashion icon by brands, leading to further opportunities to collaborate with different magazines.
6. Kim Yohan (WEi)
The main singer in the K-Pop group, Kim YoHan, is also one of the most popular because of his good looks and body proportions which have led to him having one of the lead roles in Kakao TV hit series A Love So Beautiful about a relationship between a trendy shoe designer and a country bumpkin!
ELLE, STAR1, and NYLON are popular fashion magazines. He is a regular on the covers of all three publications.
7. The8 (SEVENTEEN)
Although the members of SEVENTEEN might be considered fashion-forward in terms of both hair and clothing, it’s the boy band’s lead dancer The8 that really knows how to bring it when it comes to style.
It’s easy to tell that he has a knack for fashion. His slim physique, flexibility, incredible striking poses, and edgy fashion sense constantly reminds us of martial arts movies — except now the tough guys are wearing luxury brands instead of all black.
He always looks like he just walked off the runways at Paris, Milan, and London.
8. MinHyuk (BTOB)
MinHyuk, or “Huta”, is the lead rapper for this talented Cube Entertainment boy band, BTOB. He’s known as one of the most approachable idols, and he has a huge presence online.
Rapper turned model, the rapper has managed to make a name for himself in various niches from his enthusiasm for hip hop and fashion. He has appeared on the covers of well-known magazines such as BEAUTY+, STAR1, and GQ STYLE.
9. I.M (MONSTA X)
You can very easily pick him out of a crowd with his distinct vocals and obvious eye-catching charm because his aura, confidence and power he exudes make him one of the most unique idols right now.
He is widely famous for his incredible rap skills, deep baritone voice, beautiful looks, and cool expressions that always make him the centre of attention. In addition, he has a following in three major world capitals for his remarkable modelling work in VOGUE DAZED and BEAUTY+.
10. RoWoon (SF9)
As a company based in Seoul, we understand that RoWoon is just the first name that will spring to mind whenever you hear of models.
The SF9 singer and actor RoWoon is known for his incredible height, his impeccable good looks that can melt anyone’s heart, and his soft yet captivating and sweet voice tone. He also has lent his charms to companies such as DAZED, MARIE CLAIRE, and COSMOPOLITAN.