If you’re a Squid Game fan, you likely fell in love with HoYeon Jung after binge-watching the popular 2021 Netflix series (Kang was one of our favorite characters, too!). But while it was the South Korean star’s first major acting gig, don’t go calling her a newcomer. Vogue’s February cover star is practically a veteran in the fashion industry, having worked as a model for just over a decade. We’re taking a look back at Jung’s most memorable fashion moments over the years, where she’s continued to dominate the runways, red carpets, and street style scene with her distinctive style.
Prior to nabbing her breakout acting role, Jung—who was born and raised in Myeonmok-dong, a small neighborhood on the outskirts of Seoul—has worked as a model since she was 16 years old. She first signed with the agency ESteem Models back in 2012, and finished second place in Korea’s Next Top Model season 4. Thanks to her bright red hair and striking features, she quickly became one of Seoul’s top models and a catwalk fixture during fashion month. Now with The Society Management, she’s walked the runways for labels like Chanel (she was one of Karl Lagerfeld’s favorites), Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Oscar de la Renta, Marc Jacobs, and countless more.
While Jung has consistently worn the latest-and-greatest designer fashions on the runway, she has also proven that she has strong personal style both on the red carpet and street style circuit. While jetting in between fashion shows, Jung has been snapped by street style photographers in effortlessly-cool looks like a long plaid dress with a leather overcoat, or a chunky turtleneck with baggy jeans and sneakers. Her closet is filled with grungy, casual-cool pieces that make it look like she’s never trying too hard. She says she has an appreciation for street fashion in Seoul, and always strives to replicate its more relaxed silhouettes. “My signature is denim, boxy denim jackets,” she told Vogue in 2015. “I love wide and long pieces.”
Jung has continued this fashion energy for her recent red carpet appearances as well. For the Squid Game premiere in L.A. last year, she paired a strapless black dress with chunky combat boots for a cool, nonchalant edge. For the 2021 CFDA Awards, she wore a billowy black Louis Vuitton gown that was timeless yet super modern thanks to its soft draping. As her Hollywood star only continues to shine brighter (we’re dying to see what her next role will be), one can expect her fashion choices on the red carpet to get bigger and better. And we simply can’t wait!
Below, more of Jung’s best fashion moments throughout the years.
Source: Vogue