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1. Holland
PC: @hollandofficial
Holland is South Korea’s first openly gay idol. He made his solo debut with the song and music video for “Neverland” in January, which now has 6 million views, btw. He’s a total cutie and is creating serious discussion about sexuality and representation in Korean media. You can crush on Holland here!
PC: @hollandofficial
2. Hwasa
PC: @RBW.MAMAMOO
This total babe is a member of the popular group Mamamoo. Despite facing harsh criticism from the media, Hwasa has continued to be a huge inspiration for body positivity by challenging beauty norms and embracing her figure. She’s also an incredible talent and consistently delivers looks, stage presence, and pure goddess vibes.
PC: @RBW.MAMAMOO
3. RM
PC:@bangtan.official
RM, formerly known as Rap Monster, is the leader of BTS, a group that is taking the world by storm. Just last year they dethroned Justin Bieber at the Billboard Music Awards by winning Top Social Artist. Over the years RM taught himself English to help bring BTS to international audiences and wrote/produced over 80 songs recognized by the Korea Music Copyright Association.
PC:@bangtan.official
4. Amber
PC: @fx.smtown
Amber is one of the four girls who make up the group F(x). She raps, she sings, she dances, and she smashes the gender binary; what’s not to love? She has been rocking the tomboy look since her debut and has never shied away from being her true self, no matter what other people have to say about her form of gender expression. This Taiwanese/American star is also a major force on social media; make sure to follow her Instagram at @ajol_llama.
PC: @fx.smtown
5. Jeonghan
PC:@seventeennews
This singer for the 13-member group Seventeen is best known for his beautiful long hair and feminine features. He’s been challenging gender stereotypes about masculinity since his debut in 2015 and hasn’t stopped since. Often known as being the “pretty” one in the group, Jeonghan is blurring the lines of the gender binary and delivering amazing vocals all at the same time.
PC:@seventeennews
6. Hyolyn
PC: @hyolyn.official
This former member of Sistar is famous for her incredible vocal abilities. Very few people in the business can hit a high note like her and no one can do it while delivering her level of charm and charisma. While Hyolyn is an amazing singer she is also challenging strict Korean beauty standards by embracing her gorgeous, natural, tan skin and showing off her many tattoos.
PC: @hyolyn.official
7. Hansol
PC: @ToppDoggHouse
Hansol, a former member of the group ToppDogg, is the first Korean idol to come out as asexual. He has also been known to call out homophobic commentators and uses his social media platform to talk about LGBTQ+ rights. On top of being a vocalist, this stunner is also a choreographer. Check out his dance cover of Slut Like You by P!NK and get ready to be slayed!
PC: @ToppDoggHouse