South Korea’s modeling scene is notoriously oversaturated with foreign faces, especially white models. So, when I set out to spotlight standout foreign women and men in the industry, I had to dig deeper.
Yes, Jenny Park is Korean, but her mixed heritage and trailblazing status as a half-Black teen model make her a game-changer in a sea of sameness.
If you’re in Korea or lived there, you’ve likely come across these familiar faces in digital billboards or in K-pop music videos!
1. Elina Karimova: The Uzbek Beauty Who’s Everywhere
Born in Uzbekistan and raised in Seoul, Elina Karimova is a model, YouTuber, and TikTok sensation. She gained fame through her makeup tutorials, skincare tips, and song covers, amassing a loyal following across social media platforms. Elina’s striking features and engaging content have made her a standout figure in the beauty and entertainment industries.
Nationality: Russian-Uzbek
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, YouTuber, TikTok Star
Social Media: Instagram (@elina_4_22), TikTok (@karimova_elina2.0)
2: Dasha Taran: Russia’s Beauty Queen Turned K-Beauty Icon
Dasha Taran, a Russian model and influencer based in Seoul, has captivated audiences with her ethereal beauty and refined aesthetic. With over 6 million followers on Instagram, she has become a prominent figure in the K-beauty scene, collaborating with brands like MINISH and launching her own beauty line, TamBeautyMe.
Nationality: Russian
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, Influencer, YouTuber
Social Media: Instagram (@taaarannn), YouTube (Dasha Taran)
3. Angelina Danilova: The Russian Elf Who’s More Than Just a Pretty Face
Angelina Danilova, known as the “Russian elf,” is a model, singer, and TV personality who has been active in South Korea since 2016. She made her solo singing debut with the digital single “As You Are” in 2020 and has appeared in music videos for artists like Hanhae and Eddy Kim.
Nationality: Russian
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, Singer, Actress, TV Personality
Social Media: Instagram (@angelinadanilova)
4. Stefanie Michova: From Model to Beenzino’s Muse
German model Stefanie Michova has been a fixture in South Korea’s fashion scene. She gained significant attention due to her relationship with Korean rapper Beenzino, whom she married after a long-term relationship. In 2022, Stefanie shared insights into how they managed their relationship during Beenzino’s mandatory military service, highlighting their strong bond and commitment. Most recently, Stefanie Michova appeared in her first Korean film Big Deal.
Nationality: German
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, Actress, Photographer
Social Media: Instagram (@stefaniemichova)
5. Jenny Park: Korea’s Most Famous Half-Black Teen Model
Jenny Park, a 17-year-old model and social media influencer, has quickly gained recognition in the South Korean modeling industry. Despite facing challenges due to her Korean and Nigerian heritage, she remains determined to make a positive impact on the representation of mixed-race models.
Nationality: Korean-Nigerian
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, Influencer
Social Media: Instagram (@__jennypark__)
6. Carson Allen: The American Actress Making Her Mark in K-Film
Carson Allen is an American actress who rose to fame in South Korean film. She is most known for her appearance in the Netflix Korea original series “So Not Worth It” and has also appeared in independent films and shorts.
Nationality: American
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Actress
Social Media: Instagram (@carsonallen)
7. Tiana Tolstoi: The French Model Who’s Walked for Versace
Tiana Tolstoi is a French model of Korean, Serbian, and Russian descent. She has graced the runways for high-fashion brands like Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, and Versace. Tiana has also appeared in campaigns for Lancôme, Calvin Klein, and Jimmy Choo, solidifying her status as a global fashion icon.
Nationality: French
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model
Social Media: Instagram (@tianatolstoi)
8. Jang Min: Korean-Spanish Model and Actor Bridging Cultures On and Off Screen
Jang Min is a Korean-Spanish model and actor born in Elche, Spain, to a Korean father and a Spanish mother. Originally named Min Chang Vergara, he built his career after an unconventional start—transitioning from sales and retail jobs into personal training, which ultimately led him into international modeling.
Jang has worked across Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, Italy, and the United States, and later settled in South Korea, where he expanded into entertainment. He gained wider recognition through appearances on Korean television and as a cast member on the K-drama Mon Chouchou Global House, showcasing his multilingual and multicultural background.
Nationality: Spanish
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, Actor
Social Media: Instagram (@mjangarax)
9. Sissel: Model and Social Star Finding Fame
Sissel is a Norwegian-Russian model who has made a name for herself in the Korean fashion and entertainment scene. Known for her striking features and dynamic presence, she has worked with several local and international brands while also gaining attention through social media.
Beyond her modeling work, Sissel has built a notable friendship with fellow model and influencer Angelina Danilova, often appearing together at events and in content collaborations that highlight the growing community of international creatives in Korea.
Nationality: Norwegian-Russian
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Model, Social Media Influencer
Social Media: Instagram (@sissel_ab)
10. Lara Benito: From Model to Singer with a Soulful Sound
Nationality: Spanish
Based in: Seoul, South Korea
Profession: Musical Artist, YouTuber
Social Media: Instagram (@laraland_official)
Spanish-born Lara Benito has made a name for herself in South Korea as a model and singer. She has released music in both Korean and Spanish, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Lara’s unique blend of cultural influences has garnered her a dedicated fanbase in the Korean entertainment industry.
Recently, Lara covered “Golden” from the popular Netflix film K-Pop Demon Hunters in Korean, English and Spanish on her YouTube channel.
Should I make a post about other foreigners who came to Korea and became stars?
Leave a Reply