All About HoYeon Jung, Top Model & ‘Squid Game’ Actress

I don’t know about you, but one of my favourite things to do after watching a new series is learning more about the cast on social media. After binge-watching Squid Game, Netflix’s hottest series as of date, I was particularly interested in finding out more about Hoyeon Jung, who plays Kang Sae-byeok on the series. 

If you’re reading this, then you’re probably going through a Squid Game hangover and wanting to do your research on your favourite characters, too. So, let’s get right to it!

Also read: ‘Squid Game’ Actor Christian Lagahit Shares Behind the Scenes Snaps

Interesting facts about model and actress HoYeon Jung

1. She made her acting debut on Squid Game

Yup, can you believe her role on Squid Game was her very first acting gig?

In an interview with W Korea, Hoyeon shared that her audition took place just a month after transferring to her acting agency. She was surprised to have been casted, as she confessed that she thought she would have to undergo a certain amount of training before actively auditioning, and all the more landing an actual role!

What’s more, back in 2018, Hoyeon admitted in an interview with models.com that acting was her dream. Who would’ve known her very first acting job would be such a hit?

2. HoYeon Jung is, first and foremost, a fashion model

No, HoYeon is no overnight sensation — just a newcomer to the entertainment world. Before venturing into acting, she had already been a longtime top model. She started modelling at the young age of 17, walking the runway at Seoul Fashion Week in her very first year. In 2014, HoYeon joined Korea’s Next Top Model and made it out as Cycle 4’s runner up.

She went on to make her international debut as a model with Louis Vuitton in 2016, and has since modelled for a number of luxury brands. Among them are Chanel, Hermeès, Dolce Gabbana, and Fendi!

3. She studied English in order to pursue an acting career

In an interview with models.com dated 12 Dec 2018, HoYeon revealed that she learned more English specifically because she wanted to act. She believed that studying the language was the right first step before actively pursuing a career in acting. HoYeon also shared that she took speech and acting classes — and clearly, they paid off!

Also read: Filipino Actor Carlo Aquino Was Almost in K-Drama Squid Game

4. Jung is her family name, while HoYeon is her first name

Just in case you were confused: She goes by HoYeon Jung rather than Jung Hoyeon, so Jung is her family name. Since she models globally, it was possibly more convenient to go by her “international” name.

5. She was born in 1994

Born 23 June 1994, HoYeon is currently 28 in Korean age and 27 in international age. Personally, I was surprised to discover that she wasn’t a teen or in her early 20s — but then again, Korean genes and skincare are on another level, after all. #YouthGoals!

6. Hoyeon has been in a relationship with Lee Dong-hwi since 2015

Yes, you read that right: HoYeon’s longtime boyfriend is none other than Reply 1988’s Dong-ryong! The two started dating in 2015 and publicly announced their relationship in 2016. During their earlier years together, the pair was nicknamed the “fashionista couple.”

Another interesting fact about this couple is that due to their nine-year age gap, their relationship was initially quite the controversy. Having been together for the past six years, it’s clear they’ve been going strong! You won’t find many photos of them together, though, as they keep their relationship low-key.

Also read: This Dalgona Set Lets You Play the ‘Squid Game’ Honeycomb Challenge

7. She’s good friends with Jennie of Blackpink

If you’re a Blink yourself, then here’s why HoYeon might have looked familiar to you: She and Jennie have actually been good friends for several years! In an interview with Netflix, Lee Jung-jae even revealed that Jennie visited the set, complete with a coffee truck.

The coffee truck came with a sweet message,too : “Actors, production crew, staff, everyone~ Please take care of Saebyeok-unnie well – Jennie ♡” Too cute, right?

Another fun fact: Jennie showed such a significant amount of support that her name even appears in the ending credits! The K-pop idol was one of several names listed under “Special Thanks.”

Also read: A BLACKPINK Documentary Will Light Up Your Screens on 14 Oct 2020

8. She gained millions of Instagram followers since Squid Game premiered

According to HoYeon’s fans, the model-actress had 400,000 followers before the series came out. After four days, she hit one million followers; and at the time of writing, she’s already at 5.3 million. Not following her yet? Find HoYeon Jung on Instagram at @hoooooyeony.

Also read: 10 Fun Facts About Lee Ho-Jung, aka Yoon Sol From Nevertheless

Are there any other cool facts you know about HoYeon Jung? For now, we look forward to seeing her next projects!

Featured image credit: Netflix