20 Korean Instagram Influencers —A Deeper Look

Arthur Sabalionis
AJ Marketing Blog
Published in
10 min readDec 5, 2019
Image from @wanna._b on Instagram

Wow, Instagram has truly taken the Korean social media scene by storm! It’s become the go-to platform for teenagers, twenty-somethings, and even those in their thirties. People just can’t get enough of it! Whether you’re into sharing stunning pictures or simply browsing through aesthetically pleasing content, Instagram has got you covered. Plus, you can easily keep up with your favorite influencers and celebrities too!

Data from Hootsuite Digital Report | Chart by ajmarketing.io

Believe it or not, there are a staggering 19 million Instagram users in South Korea. That’s an impressive 37% of the entire population! Just think about the countless opportunities for brands to make an impact. With such a massive user base, promoting products, boosting online presence, and increasing brand recognition has never been more promising. Plus, the potential for improving conversions is simply off the charts. Instagram is definitely the place to be for brands looking to make waves in the Korean market.

Instagram Influencer Industry Size in Korea

The rise of Instagram in Korea has set the stage for an explosion of new influencers and a skyrocketing influencer marketing scene. It’s like a whole new world out there! In 2022 alone, Korea splurged a whopping $13.72 billion USD on advertising. And get this, a cool $9.22 billion USD was dedicated to digital advertising, with another $309.6 million USD invested in influencer marketing. Talk about big bucks!

But here’s the catch: not all that glitters is gold. Many influencers flaunt their massive follower counts as a sales tactic to lure in customers. That’s why we can’t stress enough the importance of finding a trustworthy local partner if you’re thinking of marketing your product or service in South Korea. A local marketing agency knows the ins and outs of Korea’s advertising and marketing trends, as well as the quirks of Korean consumers.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Get ready to meet the crème de la crème of Korean Instagram influencers. They’re making waves and leaving their mark on the platform right now!

Top 20 Korean Instagram Influencers

20. Suran

Instagram: @suranelenashin
Followers: 255K
Topics: Music, Entertainment

Suran, the sensational South Korean K-pop musician, has taken YouTube by storm with a string of hits. You’ve got to check out bangers like “Let it Fly,” “Diamonds,” “Wish I Could,” and “Devils in the City.” But that’s not all! Her Instagram account is a treasure trove of updates on her electrifying performances and behind-the-scenes glimpses into her daily life. Get ready for an exclusive backstage pass!

19. Rock Chae Eun

Instagram: @rockchaeeun
Followers: 266K
Topics: Skincare, Beauty

Meet Chae-eun, the ultimate skincare and beauty guru of South Korea. As a freelance model, she’s got the inside scoop on all things radiant and flawless. Need hair care recommendations? Look no further! Chae-eun is your go-to source. Her Instagram feed is packed with informative product reviews, captivating makeup tutorials, and honest impressions of skincare gems. Get ready to up your beauty game with her expert guidance.

18. Ji-Eun Han

Instagram: @jieun_han
Followers: 294K
Topics: Fashion, Lifestyle

Brace yourself for a glimpse into the fabulous life of this stunning model! Not only does she take us on envy-inducing trips to breathtaking locations in Korea, but she’s also a fashion icon in her own right. From head-turning style tips to must-try food adventures, golfing escapades, and even tips on caring for your furry friends, her Instagram is a treasure trove of lifestyle inspiration. Get ready to hit that follow button and join her on her amazing journey!

17. Angela

Instagram: @chu_obabe
Followers: 296K
Topics: Fitness, Beauty

Looking for the ultimate health and beauty influencer? Look no further! This powerhouse of a model is the perfect collaborator for promoting your health products. She’s not just about sharing workout routines; she spills all her health and beauty secrets too. With a fit and sexy body like hers, it’s clear that her tips are the real deal. Get ready to soak up some life-changing advice and feel inspired to live your healthiest, most beautiful life.

16. Jin Jin

Instagram: @__jin___jin__
Followers: 303K
Topics: Beauty, Lifestyle

Say hello to Jin, the fierce freelance model who’s taking the internet by storm! Her Instagram feed is a delightful mix of sexy photos, skincare recommendations, honest cosmetic product reviews, and jaw-dropping makeup tutorials. With her popularity on the rise, it’s no wonder she’s already collaborated with big-name brands like 3CE and Stylenanda.

15. Jung-hoon Kim

Instagram: @2219a
Followers: 325K
Topics: Beauty, Men’s Fashion, Lifestyle

Meet the one and only Kim Jung hoon, the hairstylist extraordinaire making waves in South Korea. But he’s not just about hair; he’s a lifestyle guru too! From sharing top-notch skincare tips to showcasing stylish OOTDs, this man is a must-follow for guys looking to up their lifestyle game. But that’s not all! Kim Jung hoon is also an avid golfer and has a knack for all things NFTs, cryptocurrency, and investments.

14. Park Da-hyeon

Instagram: @hyo0ni
Followers: 328K
Topics: Lifestyle, Travel

Prepare to be whisked away to mesmerizing destinations around the world through the eyes of Hyooni. Her Instagram account is a breathtaking visual journey that combines stunning holiday trips with her passions for golfing and diving. Get ready to explore the beauty of nature and immerse yourself in unforgettable adventures. Hyooni is your ultimate travel companion, and you won’t want to miss a single post!

13. Jeong-ah Kim

Instagram: @94_j.a
Followers: 470K
Topics: Fashion, Travel

Calling all fashion enthusiasts! You’re in for a treat with Jeaong-ah Kim. This creative soul will take your style game to a whole new level. Her Instagram feed is a vibrant tapestry of colorful looks, accompanied by countless selfies featuring jaw-dropping outfits and innovative makeup.

12. Jess

Instagram: @jess.02.23
Followers: 481K
Topics: Fashion, Parenting

Motherhood hasn’t stopped this fashion-forward superstar from slaying the style game! This young mom is the epitome of elegance, serving up a dose of decent, minimal, and elegant looks. Her Instagram account is a haven for those seeking fashion inspiration without compromising on sophistication.

11. Sovely

Instagram: @ssovely1024
Followers: 506K
Topics: Fashion, Travel

Prepare to be amazed by this stunning fashionista who has become every woman’s style icon. Her looks range from simple and edgy to downright sexy, and she effortlessly rocks any outfit she wears. On her Instagram feed, you’ll find a delightful mix of lifestyle content, envy-inducing OOTDs, and breathtaking travel photos.

10. Jin-hyeon Choi

Instagram: @d.of.j.c.
Followers
: 518K
Topics: Lifestyle, Men’s Fashion

Meet the sensational Jin-hyeon Choi, the YouTube video creator who’s taking the fashion world by storm. His Instagram is a treasure trove of inspiration, showcasing his daily outfits, aesthetic photos, and cool poses. He’s the ultimate go-to for men looking to up their fashion game. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a single post!

9. Sumin Nam

Instagram: @suminzz
Followers
: 554K
Topics: Fashion, Lifestyle

If you’re all about experimenting with your casual looks, then Sumin’s account is an absolute must-follow. She’s the queen of mix and match outfits, and her daily OOTDs are sure to inspire your everyday wear. Oh, and did we mention she also owns her own clothing brand? Get ready to revamp your style with Sumin’s impeccable fashion sense!

8. Ehwa Kim

Instagram: @kimehwa
Followers: 641K
Topics: Fashion, Travel

Looking for easy-to-follow casual fashion inspo? Look no further than Ehwa Kim! This trendsetter is all about catering to Gen Zs and millennials, providing outfit inspiration for all seasons. Whether she’s rocking the latest trends or sharing her travel adventures both in and out of Korea, Ehwa Kim’s Instagram is a fashion lover’s paradise. Get ready to level up your style game!

7. Youna Jung

Instagram: @ulael_
Followers
: 657K
Topics: Fashion, Lifestyle

Brace yourself for the incredible Youna, a true fashion maven who never fails to impress. With her flawless OOTDs and edgy looks, she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her captivating style caught the attention of Maxim magazine, landing her the coveted cover model spot in July 2020. But that’s not all! She’s also an avid traveler, sharing her wanderlust-inducing pictures and everything in between.

6. DJ Jina

Instagram: @djjina_official
Followers
: 704K
Topics: Music, Lifestyle

Get ready to party with the incredible Jina, a real-life disc jockey who’s turning heads with her talent and irresistible appeal. Her Instagram account is a feast for the senses, featuring glimpses into the vibrant party life, daring pictures, and electrifying DJ sets. Get ready to be swept away by Jina’s magnetic energy and immerse yourself in the world of music and excitement!

5. Eudeum Shim

Instagram: @euddeume_
Followers: 754K
Topics: Pilates, Fitness

Looking for the perfect pilates instructor in South Korea? Look no further than Eudeum! This incredible fitness guru regularly blesses us with daily workout tutorials that you can easily follow from the comfort of your own home. And let’s not forget about her amazing figure, which has caught the attention of numerous underwear brands. Eudeum is truly a force to be reckoned with!

4. Woohyun Kim

Instagram: @woohye0n
Followers: 1M
Topics: Lifestyle, Cosplay

Get ready to be blown away by the captivating Woohyun. As a sexy model and artist hailing from South Korea, she knows how to command attention. Her Instagram is a canvas of daring pictures, accompanied by awesome cosplay shots that showcase her creativity. Not only that, but she also keeps her fans updated on her daily activities, from intense workouts and marathons to exciting events. Woohyun is a true force of nature!

3. Boram

Instagram: @boram_jj
Followers
: 1M
Topics: Beauty, Fitness

Meet the fabulous Boram, your go-to source for all things fitness and wellness. Her Instagram is a treasure trove of daily workout tutorials and healthy diet tips to help you reach your goals. But that’s not all! Boram loves sharing her healthy recipes, honest skincare reviews, and top-notch makeup recommendations.

2. Bora Kim

Instagram: @wanna._b
Followers
: 1M
Topics: Fashion, Lifestyle, Beauty

Say hello to the sensational Bora, a fashion model from South Korea who’s making waves in the industry. Her Instagram feed is a melting pot of versatile looks, ranging from casual and sexy to sporty and everything in between. But Bora is not just about fashion; she’s a globetrotter too! Follow her as she takes you on breathtaking holiday trips in Korea and beyond. And of course, she’s always ready to spill the tea on beauty secrets and share other exciting lifestyle content.

1. Jeon Changha

Instagram: @chang._.a
Followers
: 4M
Topics: Fashion, Travel, Lifestyle

Prepare to be mesmerized by the irresistible charm of Chang Ha Jeon. With his handsome face and cool fashion looks, he has captivated audiences across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Get ready to embark on a fashion-forward journey as you join his legion of followers who just can’t get enough of his charismatic presence.

The Key to Instagram Influencer Marketing

The Instagram influencers on this list were selected randomly, with a goal to show you a full view of the influencer community in Korea. We used only two criteria.

  • First, we selected influencers with at least 200,000 followers.
  • Second, we did not include Korean celebrities such as top K-pop singers and actors, because they do not usually utilize their accounts for marketing purposes and are mostly hired as models for ads, or as brand ambassadors.

We hope the information above will be useful when planning your own marketing campaign. Influencer marketing in Korea is tricky, but it will yield great results if done properly.

You can compare the list above with our more niche-specific lists on beauty, fashion, tech, fitness, and K-pop influencers.

If you are interested in knowing more about marketing in Korea, check the AJ Marketing Blog, or contact us. Our mission is to open Korea to global brands.

Read Next:
Marketing in Korea: Top 10 Successful Instagram Campaigns
Top 30 Stunning Korean Models on Instagram: Best of 2021

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Arthur Sabalionis
AJ Marketing Blog

I like positive vibes, telling stories, creators, content, Korea-Japan-SEA 🐧 | info@ajmarketing.io