Jung Ho-yeon is a South Korean model and actress who skyrocketed to international fame through her breakout role as Kang Sae-byeok (Player 067) in Netflix’s mega-hit survival drama “Squid Game” (2021). Her performance as the fierce North Korean defector not only earned critical acclaim but also transformed her from a high-fashion runway star into a globally recognized actress almost overnight.
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Ho-yeon began modeling at the age of 16 and made her first major mark in the industry as a runner-up in “Korea’s Next Top Model” in 2013. With her signature red hair and fierce runway walk, she quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in Korean fashion. She walked for international brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Marc Jacobs, eventually becoming the first Korean global ambassador for Louis Vuitton’s fashion, watches, and jewelry lines after her success in “Squid Game.”
Her seamless transition from runway to screen was unexpected but thrilling, proving that she is much more than just a model. In 2022, she won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series — the first South Korean actress ever to win in that category. Known for her grounded personality, artistic drive, and androgynous beauty, Jung Ho-yeon is one of South Korea’s most captivating and promising young talents.
Personal Life
| Original/Real Name |
Jung Ho-yeon |
| Other/Nickname |
Korea’s “Red-haired Model” (former) |
| Profession/Occupation |
Actress, Fashion Model |
| Birthplace |
Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality |
South Korean |
| Age |
30 years |
| Date of Birth |
June 23, 1994 |
| Hometown |
Seoul, South Korea |
| Caste/Religion |
Not publicly known / Non-religious |
| Zodiac sign/Sun sign |
Cancer |
| Current career status |
Active |
Physical Appearance
| Height (Centimeters) |
176 cm (5’9”) |
| Weight (Kilograms) |
49 kg |
| Body Measurements |
31-23-34 |
| Hair Color |
Black (formerly dyed red) |
| Eye’s Color |
Dark Brown |
Family Relatives & Siblings
| Father’s name |
Not publicly disclosed |
| Mother’s name |
Not publicly disclosed |
| Brother’s name |
N/A |
| Sister’s name |
Has two younger sisters |
Marital Status Affairs Boyfriends Kids & Relationship
| Boyfriend |
Lee Dong-hwi (confirmed) |
| Dating |
Yes, since 2015 |
| Marital Status |
Unmarried |
| Spouse/Husband |
N/A |
| Son |
N/A |
| Daughter |
N/A |
Education Qualification and Schooling/College
| School |
Hyewon Girls’ High School |
| College/ University |
Dongduk Women’s University (Modeling) |
| Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s in Modeling |
Controversies
While Jung Ho-yeon has managed to keep her image largely scandal-free, she did receive some public scrutiny over being cast in international productions amid concerns of Korean actors being “typecast” post–“Squid Game.” However, her nuanced performances have consistently won praise.
Favorite Things and Likes & Dislikes
| Favorite Food |
Tteokbokki, Ramen |
| Favorite Movie |
“Kill Bill” |
| Favorite Actor |
Joaquin Phoenix |
| Favorite Actress |
Tilda Swinton |
| Favorite Color |
Black |
| Favorite Designer |
Nicolas Ghesquière |
| Favorite Destination |
New York City |
| Favorite Cafe |
Cafe Knotted (Seoul) |
| Favorite daily wear brand |
Louis Vuitton |
| Favorite Book |
“The Stranger” by Albert Camus |
| Favorite Athlete |
Son Heung-min |
Money/Net Worth
| Salary |
Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth |
Estimated $4 million (2024) |
Contact Information
| Official Website |
N/A |
| E-Mail Address |
Not publicly available |
| Phone Number |
Not publicly available |
| House Address |
Seoul, South Korea |
Social Media
| Wikipedia |
Jung Ho-yeon |
| Twitter |
N/A |
| Facebook |
N/A |
| Instagram |
@hoooooyeony (verified) |
Personal quote:
“I’m still learning who I am. Acting just helped me ask better questions.”
Early Life and Career:
Jung Ho-yeon was born in Seoul and began modeling at the age of 16. After attending Dongduk Women’s University, she rose to fame through “Korea’s Next Top Model” and quickly broke into the international scene. With her bold red hair and striking features, she became a favorite on the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York. She modeled for top brands like Louis Vuitton, Fendi, and Chanel.
However, her childhood dream had always been to act. In 2020, she signed with Saram Entertainment and began acting training. Her debut as Kang Sae-byeok in Netflix’s “Squid Game” was a global phenomenon. She was praised for her intense and emotional portrayal of the North Korean defector, earning major accolades including a SAG Award and a nomination at the Critics’ Choice Television Awards.
Current life/Events:
Following her breakout role, Jung Ho-yeon has been signed for global endorsement deals with brands like Adidas, Louis Vuitton, and Calvin Klein. She made her U.S. TV debut in the Apple TV+ series “Disclaimer” directed by Alfonso Cuarón, starring alongside Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline. She’s also been cast in several upcoming Korean films, signaling her continued rise as a versatile performer.
Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Jung Ho-yeon
- She dyed her hair red before “Korea’s Next Top Model” to stand out — it became her trademark look.
- Despite her fame, she’s described herself as shy and introverted.
- She taught herself English by watching YouTube and Netflix during modeling trips.
- Jung Ho-yeon is childhood friends with BLACKPINK’s Jennie.
- She considers walking for Louis Vuitton and acting in “Squid Game” to be her biggest dreams come true.
- Before her acting debut, she had no formal experience, but trained intensively for 3 months.
- She is an avid reader and loves existential philosophy.
- She enjoys skateboarding and sketching in her free time.
- She once said she almost gave up on modeling due to the intense pressure and loneliness.
- Vogue Korea featured her on the cover six times — a national record for a model-turned-actress.
