An Mi-ryeo Receives Special Contribution Award at 2026 K-Model Awards

An Mi-ryeo, the president of the Korean Makeup Artists Association, was awarded the prestigious Special Contribution Award at the 2026 K-Model Awards held on the afternoon of the 14th at Eliana Hotel in Gangnam, Seoul.

The K-Model Awards, hosted by the Korean Model Association, aims to enhance the global competitiveness of the modeling industry in South Korea and expand the innovative ecosystem encompassing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. This year’s event was designed to highlight the various values of models who have evolved into key creators in the age of digital transformation, celebrating the leaders of K-Culture.

An Mi-ryeo was recognized for her long-term efforts in pioneering the professionalism and creativity of South Korea's beauty industry, promoting the convergence of K-Beauty, K-Models, and K-Fashion, and elevating the status of South Korea's cultural and artistic industries in global markets.

Other awardees included Gwak Hyun-joo for Designer of the Year, Park Yun-soo for Maestro Award, and popular culture icons such as Lee Ji-won and Kim Kyu-ri for their contributions in acting. Additionally, models Yoo Seong-jun, Park Ji-won, Ahn Jae-hyung, and Seo Hyun received awards for their accomplishments in fashion.

During her acceptance speech, An Mi-ryeo emphasized that the K-Model Awards transcends a mere ceremony, serving as a significant festival that illuminates the values of the South Korean modeling industry along with K-Beauty, K-Fashion, and K-Culture. She acknowledged, 'The beauty industry in South Korea has become a culture attracting global attention and strong competitiveness,' attributing this success to professionals who have charted their courses with exceptional expertise and creativity.

Furthermore, An expressed hope for continued close collaboration among various sectors to foster growth, suggesting that K-Beauty, K-Models, and K-Fashion will shine on a larger global stage. She also indicated that the event should serve as a valuable opportunity for creating new connections and sharing visions for the future of South Korea's cultural industries.

The event was well attended by industry stakeholders from fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, along with notable guests. Im Joo-wan, president of the Korean Model Association, stated, 'The 2026 K-Model Awards is not just about recognizing talent; it aims to solidify the global competitiveness of the South Korean modeling industry and serve as a platform for expanding the fashion and beauty ecosystem.'