Korean Beauty Standards in K-pop: Who Should Be the Visual?
When it comes to visual representations in K-pop, the standard is often tinged with cultural specificity. This article delves into a detailed analysis of which members from popular K-pop groups like Red Velvet, Twice, and Blackpink might best embody the 'Korean beauty standards' and discusses why title members like Jisoo or Jennie might not be the perfect fit.
Introduction to K-pop Visual Standards
In K-pop, the term visual refers to the group member who typically garners the most attention due to her striking appearance and fashion sense. However, given the increasingly diverse representation within the K-pop industry, the term 'Korean beauty standards' can often seem at odds with the international appeal of certain groups. This article aims to explore which member fits these standards the most, scrutinizing both visual attractiveness and cultural fit.
Red Velvet: Yeri - An Underrated Gem
Among K-pop's eager fans, Red Velvet's Kim Yeri is often seen as an unsung hero. Yeri's natural beauty is rarely talked about, but she would likely rank third in visual appeal if judged against Korean beauty standards. Yeri's serene, angelic presence is often overshadowed by the more vibrant yet slightly off-the-charts visuals of other groups. Her beauty is understated yet profound, making her a strong candidate for a visual role.
Twice: Mina - A Breathtaking Visual
Twice's Mina is often praised for her ethereal beauty, which aligns closely with Korean beauty standards. If not for the presence of Tzuyu, Mina would undoubtedly be one of the visual leaders of her group. Her delicate yet striking looks, combined with her powerful stage presence, make her an ideal candidate for a visual position. Mina's adorableness and natural charm make her a true standout, particularly in the context of Korean beauty standards.
Blackpink: The Controversy Surrounding Jennie and Rosé
Blackpink, perhaps the most internationally recognized group, presents a unique challenge in terms of visual representation. While Jisoo is the closest to fitting the traditional Korean beauty standards, she is often seen as more Western in appearance, which skews her representation. Jisoo's aura and recognizability stem more from her striking features and memorable performances rather than her adherence to Korean beauty standards.
When comparing Rosé and Jennie, both have their pros and cons. Rosé, while having a longer face and smaller eyes, is considered paler and has a V-shaped jaw, traits that align more closely with Korean beauty standards. Jennie, on the other hand, is more internationally recognized and aligns with American beauty standards, which have a broader reach.
Conclusion
The choice of a K-pop visual is multifaceted, balancing artistic representation with cultural recognition. Yeri of Red Velvet, Mina of Twice, and Rosé of Blackpink stand out for their adherence to Korean beauty standards and natural charisma. However, the Germanic version of 'whom should the visual be' is best answered by a mix of personal preference and cultural impact.
Ultimately, the visual role in K-pop serves as a representation of the group's aesthetic and cultural identity. As the industry evolves, it is essential to recognize and embrace diversity, both in terms of beauty standards and cultural representation.
Keywords: Korean beauty standards, visual member, K-pop groups