According to Xports news, top actresses who shaped the beauty standards of Korea in the 2000s such as Kim Tae Hee, Song Hye Kyo, Jun Ji Hyun... are now in their 40s. In addition to changes in appearance, they also have changes in thinking and career development orientation.
Kim Tae Hee's "most normal" role
Kim Tae Hee, 45, returns to the small screen after 2 years with the drama "Butterfly", currently airing on tvN and the Amazon Prime Video platform.
At a recent press conference, Kim Tae Hee said that the character in "Butterfly" was her "more normal" role ever, she only had light makeup and a simple look.
"I appeared in front of the camera with the most me, which surprisingly made me feel comfortable. The feeling of standing in front of the camera without too many new settings or creating a new look, the actress said.
In the program "You Quiz on the Block", Kim Tae Hee also attracted attention when confiding about her age and appearance.
Recalling her iconic role in the 2009 drama "Iris", Kim Tae Hee shared, "That is probably my favorite look.
As we age, there are many things we may not like about ourselves, but we must accept them. I hope everyone will consider the wrinkles appearing when laughing as something beautiful.

Jun Ji Hyun talks about identity and aging
Jun Ji Hyun, 43, is scheduled to return on September 10 with the Disney+ original series "Tempest".
Known as one of the "beauty assets" of the Korean screen, associated with luxurious image through the role of ambassador of luxury brands, Jun Ji Hyun also sometimes lacks confidence in himself.
I can always look very confident on the outside, but there are times when my confidence is shaken.
When that happens, I remind myself that confidence is not immoderate, it develops and changes with the flow of life. By taking care of myself and trying to recover my inner strength, I can find balance, the actress said.
Jun Ji Hyun added that she often reflects on the future, both in her personal life and career.
What will actress Jun Ji Hyun look like when she gets old? I think about it non-stop. I also wonder how my children will grow up and what they will do. I guess it's a sign of aging.
I just want to live honestly with myself and never imagine a day when I am no longer myself, the actress confided.

Song Hye Kyo shares new perspective
Song Hye Kyo, 43, also shared about her change in professional thinking when appearing on the show "You Quiz on the Block".
In my 40s, I clearly saw the difference between myself and younger actresses. I really need to focus on acting. I'm past the point where just appearance is enough," Song Hye Kyo said.
However, the star of the movie "Happy House" admitted that she likes to hear compliments about her appearance.
With the determination to prove his ability through acting, the audience is expecting Song Hye Kyo's new film project - Netflix's "Slowly and Intensely" - to have a production budget exceeding 70 billion won.
The film revolves around the Korean entertainment industry in the 1960s-1980s, expected to air in 2026.