Korea has become an essential market in the fashion industry, and to get your product or service out there. You may need to enlist the help of models in Korea. But you might be asking yourself, Can foreign models work in Korea? This can be an excellent way to expand your business into Asia, but it also brings up some unique challenges that you’ll want to be prepared for before signing on any new models. You’ll need to know about all of the different Korean model agencies in Korea and how they operate.
The Advantages of Being a Model
Korean Modeling Agencies:Â When foreigners move to Seoul, they are often surprised by how difficult it is to find modeling jobs. It’s not that Korean models are any better than non-Korean models; they have access to a different network of industry contacts and a handful of regional agencies that cater specifically to non-Korean talent.
There are a few agencies that will accept foreigners into their model pool. Still, most of them focus on specific fashion styles or require you have some sort of affiliation with a major foreign agency (such as Elite in Paris or IMG in New York).
Legal Requirements to be A Model
Being a model is not as simple as just showing up and taking your photo. You need to register with a government agency, have an agent represent you, and have official documents certifying your age and height. To get started, you’ll need to become certified by a Korean modeling agency that takes legal responsibility for you and handles all of your business affairs here in Korea. Once you are registered with a modeling agency. You can begin searching for auditions through local casting calls or print advertisements.Â
The process of becoming a model will follow these steps:Â
- registration
- finding modeling agencies,
- auditions, and
- representation by an agent.
It’s best to start early and check back often to don’t miss any opportunities. Also, keep in mind that models must be at least 15 years old (in most cases).
The Truth About Finding Work As A Model In Korea: So let’s be honest here…there are thousands of beautiful girls living in Seoul who want nothing more than to work as a model. But because there aren’t enough jobs available, most aspiring models never make it past step 1 above! There aren’t enough jobs available for everyone who wants one.
Even though there are plenty of work opportunities out there, only about 10% of them get filled each year due to fierce competition from thousands upon thousands of other beautiful women trying to do exactly what you’re trying to do.
Tips for Choosing an Agency
Picking a modeling agency is tricky: There are a lot of scammers out there, and many agencies prefer to work with local talent. However, if you’re an aspiring model living abroad and want to work in South Korea. There are some things you can do to increase your chances of being successful.
Look for reputable agencies: First, contact any well-known modeling agencies directly (you can find these online) and ask them what they’re looking for. This can help screen out some illegitimate or scammy companies since legitimate companies will usually only choose top-notch models. They feel confident marketing and representing their brand ambassadors.
Also, remember that just because an agency wants you doesn’t mean it’s worth signing with them. Most agencies don’t offer competitive pay and might even charge high fees for services that other less expensive options provide free of charge (like headshots).
So be sure to consider all aspects before committing yourself to any one company. Also, keep in mind that most Korean modeling agencies are not interested in foreign models unless they can speak fluent Korean. If you’re serious about becoming a model here, take language classes before applying! Here you will learn more tips for finding a great fashion PPC agency.
So You Want To Be A Model?: There are several ways foreigners can break into Korea’s fashion industry but no matter which path you choose, expect some bumps along the way.
Things to Consider Before Signing with an Agency
Korean model agencies are always scouting for new talent. But you’ll want to ensure it’s a good fit before you sign. Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date, think about what kind of modeling you enjoy (fashion vs. commercial), and ask yourself if your ethnicity will be an issue. If nothing else, meeting with several agencies will show you how much work it takes to succeed as a model—it’s not something you do on weekends! But if modeling feels like a natural fit for you, don’t let anything hold you back from following your dreams in Korea.
How to Get Signed
Finding a modeling agency is a simple process, but it’s still important to do your research first. Start by reading other articles like ours that can offer advice and tell you which agencies are more likely to sign foreigners. Then get started contacting agencies directly through their websites or modeling databases (such as Model Mayhem). Where you can upload your portfolio for free.
If all goes well, you could find yourself booked for jobs within weeks of starting your search! In many cases, if an agency isn’t actively seeking new models or doesn’t have any open calls planned, they’ll suggest looking elsewhere. In other cases, though (especially if you’re relatively inexperienced), they might be able to sign you on as a trainee or offer some advice about finding paying work outside of their agency.