K-Beauty Takes Center Stage: Lee Hyori Returns as Host for 'Just Makeup'

The next big wave in the Hallyu phenomenon, following K-pop and K-food, is 'K-Beauty', now making its debut as a major survival show. Coupang Play's new variety show 'Just Makeup' marks Lee Hyori's return as a survival show host after 16 years, sparking interest in how her solo hosting venture will fare.

On the 1st, a production presentation for 'Just Makeup' was held at the Pullman Ambassador Seoul East Pole in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. Attendees included Lee Hyori, Jung Saem Mool, Risabae, Seo Ok, Lee Jin Soo, and directors Shim Woo Jin and Park Sung Hwan.

'Just Makeup' is a grand-scale makeup survival show where top makeup artists, representing K-Beauty on a global scale, compete fiercely with their unique styles.

The show is hosted by singer Lee Hyori, with a panel of judges comprising four leading makeup experts in K-Beauty trends: Jung Saem Mool, Seo Ok, beauty creator Risabae, and makeup artist Lee Jin Soo.

Director Shim Woo Jin explained, "K-Beauty has been loved internationally even before K-pop and K-food gained popularity. It just wasn't as noticeable domestically. As K-pop and K-food gained momentum, K-Beauty also started to gain attention, prompting us to develop related content. With the success of 'Black and White Chef', we felt it was the right time to launch this project."

Lee Hyori, taking on a survival program for the first time in 16 years, shared, "I've mostly done unscripted variety shows, so sticking to a script for a survival show was more challenging than I expected."

She added, "I have a knack for being witty and understanding the flow, but reading precise lines and highlighting key points was not easy. Makeup is a field I've been closely connected with, so I was eager to host this show."

Lee Hyori continued, "I've had a good relationship with the production team since 'Hyori's Homestay', so I was excited to work with them again. Watching makeup artists compete was touching and enlightening. It was fascinating to see the diversity in makeup styles. Personally, I had a great time."

When asked if there was a moment she wanted to receive makeup during the show, Lee Hyori humorously replied, "I've tried almost every makeup style. Many of the contestants have done my makeup before. Instead of wanting to try something new, I wanted to support them. I've been in the spotlight, and now I hope they receive the recognition they deserve. Namaste."

For her hosting style, Lee Hyori mentioned she took inspiration from MCs Jeon Hyun Moo and Kim Sung Joo, stating, "I studied their styles since I had never hosted a survival show before."

Regarding the most anticipated scenes, Lee Hyori shared, "Makeup requires an objective view of the model. There was a moment when it was hard to remain objective, which made me realize that makeup is an emotional process. It was a heartwarming experience."

Returning as a host after 1 year and 9 months since KBS2's 'The Seasons - Lee Hyori's Red Carpet', which had low ratings, Lee Hyori expressed curiosity about the show's reception, saying, "I'm curious about how confident the directors are, as it's not my program."

She added, "While filming was intense, editing is crucial for survival shows. I was concerned about whether makeup would appeal to men, seniors, or younger audiences. However, the show includes life stories and emotions, making it a drama-like program for everyone. I hope families watch it together during the holidays. I'm confident."

'Just Makeup' premieres on Coupang Play on the 3rd at 8 PM.

Reported by Kim Se Ah, Ten Asia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr