Short-form edits and fan threads about “ugly K-pop idols” are back on feeds. Posts name idols once called “not a visual” who are now celebrated by fans worldwide.
The debate centers on Korean beauty standards (very pale skin, small face, double lids, V-line jaw). Those expectations can clash with idols who have tan skin, stronger features, or a more individual style. Fan discussions track names and reactions over the years, from early criticism to later praise (YouTube shorts, KProfiles 2020, KProfiles 2021). For broader context, see explainers on South Korean beauty ideals (background).
Quick timeline
- 2013–2016: Early Korean forum posts often labeled certain idols “ugly” or “not a visual,” especially if they had darker skin, monolids, stronger jawlines, or athletic builds.
- 2017–2020: Pushback grows as idols and fans reframe “non-standard” looks as unique charm. International coverage praises individuality and performance presence.
- 2021–2025: Agencies routinely warn against malicious comments. Discussions trend again through edits and listicles. Hwasa’s bold stages and BTS RM’s style arc are often cited as turning points.
10 idols some netizens called “ugly” — and why many fans call them beautiful
Hwasa (MAMAMOO)
Early on, some Korean commenters criticized her tan skin, curvier body, and bold styling as “not idol-like.” Over time, her confident stages and candid talks about self-acceptance shifted the narrative. Many now see her as a symbol of breaking narrow beauty rules.
RM (BTS)
In BTS’s rookie years, forum posts called RM “not a visual” due to monolids, a larger nose, and broad proportions. Today, he’s praised for charisma, fashion, and an intellectual, understated allure. For many, he helped expand what a “visual” can mean in BTS.
Chaeryeong (ITZY)
Some early threads nitpicked her for not fitting a “doll-like” ideal. Fans and later coverage highlight her elegant lines, versatile dance, and expressive face. It’s a reminder that stage presence can rival textbook features.
Dahyun (TWICE)
She faced comments about her looks in the group’s earliest years. Viewers now point to her bright expressions, sharp camera sense, and playful charisma. Those traits light up performances and variety shows alike.
Chen (EXO)
Compared to EXO’s heavily “visual” lineup, a few debates once framed him as “plain.” His emotive vocals and warm expressions made many fans take a second look. Talent and sincerity often reshape first impressions.
Soyeon ((G)I-DLE)
Some netizens called her “too tomboyish” or said she didn’t match softer standards. She flipped the script with fierce stage identity and producing credits. Her sharp, creative look reads as magnetic to many fans.
Bobby (iKON)
His strong jaw and rougher aura drew criticism in a scene that favors softer visuals for male idols. The same traits now fuel his appeal on stage. Charisma and grit can be their own kind of handsome.
Kai (EXO)
At times, tan skin and performance makeup drew mixed reactions from those used to paler “flower-boy” looks. Fashion editors and fans now cite him as a modern K-pop visual. He pairs dynamic lines with supermodel presence and commanding stages.
J-Hope (BTS)
In early discourse, some grouped him into “non-standard” looks, including comments about skin tone. He’s become a go-to example of how dance excellence and radiant energy win people over. One smile, and the camera follows.
Ten (NCT/WayV)
Some commenters called his features “unusual” under a narrower mold. His androgynous, high-fashion vibe and elite dance skills changed minds. Many now place him in the “striking, model-like” lane.
What people are reacting to
- Fan-run “considered ugly but beautiful” lists that aim to praise idols who don’t match older checklists (example 1, example 2).
- Short-form edits resharing the “K-pop idols Koreans consider ugly” framing. Some fans use these to critique rigid standards (edit).
- Idols’ interviews about reading harsh comments, then leaning into their own style rather than chasing a paler or softer look.
Why it matters
These debates show how beauty standards shape who gets labeled “visual” in K-pop. They also show how quickly perceptions change with performance, styling, and storytelling.
Idols with tan skin, monolids, or stronger bone structure aren’t breaking rules—they’re expanding them. For many fans, those traits make an idol distinctive and memorable.
It also explains why some idols—like Hwasa’s stage power or RM’s quiet confidence—win new fans outside the old mold. As global audiences grow, “considered ugly” posts say more about evolving taste than anyone’s face.
What to watch next
- Performance cycles: Major comebacks, festivals, and variety appearances often spark renewed “visual” debates and glow-up edits.
- Agency updates: Companies continue to issue legal notices against malicious commenters when harassment crosses the line. Watch for periodic statements.
- Fashion and brand moves: Photo shoots and runway seats—especially for RM, Kai, Ten, and Hwasa—can shift perception faster than fancams alone.
Bottom line
Labels like “ugly K-pop idols” are a moving target. As K-pop diversifies, “visual” keeps expanding. These ten names helped push that change.