When Hoyeon first stepped onto the global stage in 2021 as the stoic yet vulnerable Sae-byeok in Squid Game, the world took notice. But before becoming an Emmy-nominated actress, the South Korean talent was already a force on the runway. A Louis Vuitton favorite for years, Hoyeon made her Paris Fashion Week debut in the brand’s Spring 2017 Ready-to-Wear show and has since become a global house ambassador—walking, fronting campaigns, and inspiring designer Nicolas Ghesquière’s collections.
Last week, Hoyeon arrived in Avignon for the Cruise 2026 show, marking her first visit to the historic southern French city. Dressed in a crisp, all-white two-piece ensemble and carrying a structured black-and-white handbag, she radiated effortless elegance in the sun-drenched landscape. Just hours before the runway lights came up, she sat down to talk fashion, beauty, film, and finding balance in an ever-evolving career.
A lasting bond with Louis Vuitton
When asked about her most unforgettable moment with Louis Vuitton, Hoyeon doesn’t hesitate. “Opening the 10th anniversary show for Nicolas Ghesquière in Paris,” she says. “It was such a special and emotional night—a real celebration of everything Nicolas has created over the years.”
Though she started with the brand as a model, her relationship with Louis Vuitton has deepened over time. “It’s magical being a guest now. You see the whole production—the clothes, the lighting, the music—it’s like watching a live art performance,” she shares. Still, she admits, “There are times I wish I were back on the runway. I really miss it.”
One of her favorite red carpet moments? A custom red gown she wore to the Venice Film Festival. “It was bold, elegant, and modern. I felt powerful and confident—that look truly captured Nicolas’s vision.”
Fashion in Avignon: A look inspired by light and ease
For the Cruise 2026 show, Hoyeon embraced the natural beauty and atmosphere of Provence. “Andrew [Mukamal] and I wanted to reflect the elegance and airiness of the South of France,” she says of her stylist. The result was a tailored white peplum top paired with matching capri pants—sophisticated, light, and quietly commanding. “What I love most is how the modern tailoring pairs perfectly with soft, comfortable fabrics. It feels polished yet relaxed, which really fits the spirit of the Cruise show,” she says.
In between fittings and front-row moments, Hoyeon took time to explore the region. She hiked to the 12th-century Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, known for its serene landscape and lavender fields, and spent a peaceful afternoon at Château La Coste, where art, architecture, and vineyards converge. “It was the perfect place to reflect and recharge.”
Beauty on the go: Her travel secrets
With an international schedule that spans fashion weeks and film sets, Hoyeon has perfected her own approach to self-care on the move. “Hydration is key,” she emphasizes. “I drink a lot of water, especially on long flights. I also bring a good moisturizer to keep my skin fresh.”
Sleep, even in short bursts, is non-negotiable. “I try to nap whenever I can. Even a little rest helps me feel more like myself.” Her go-to plane essentials? A calming face mist, under-eye patches, and a hydrating lip balm. “It’s simple, but it works.”
From scripts to self-discovery
Though she’s earned international acclaim for Squid Game, Hoyeon sees her acting career as a journey still unfolding. “I just finished filming a movie in Korea before coming here,” she shares. “Now I’m taking a little summer break—spending time outdoors, by the beach, or in the countryside. No specific plans, just peaceful moments to reset before my next project.”
Part of what makes her performances resonate so deeply is the intentional work she does off-screen. “I keep a journal for each role,” she says. “It helps me understand the character’s inner world.” She also observes real-life people, listens to music that suits the character’s mood, and practices meditation to stay present. “All these things help me connect more fully with the role.”
When choosing projects, Hoyeon looks for complexity. “I’m drawn to stories that feel authentic and challenge me. I want roles that push me to grow and make people think—about themselves, about others, about the world.”
A rising star with global perspective
Hoyeon’s connection to the South of France isn’t new—she visited the lavender fields of Provence years ago as a model—but this time, her experience was deeper. “This was my first time in Avignon, and I had the chance to really explore. The natural beauty, the history—it’s such an inspiring place,” she says.
Her ability to balance introspective acting with the global glamour of fashion speaks to her rare duality. Whether walking the runway or studying a script, Hoyeon moves with purpose, grace, and vision. As she continues to carve her path between cinema and couture, one thing is clear: she’s not just watching the story unfold—she’s writing it.
