Lee Mi-joo’s Wanghong Makeup Transformation in Shanghai | K-Beauty Update

Shanghai, China – South Korean entertainer Lee Mi-joo recently immersed herself in the world of “Wanghong” – China’s booming influencer culture – documenting her experience with a full “Wanghong” makeup transformation. The experience, detailed in a recent video posted to her YouTube channel ‘Just Mi-joo,’ offers a glimpse into the highly curated aesthetic and competitive spirit driving China’s online beauty scene.

The video, released on February 20th, showcases Lee Mi-joo’s journey to a Shanghai studio for a complete Wanghong makeover. The term “Wanghong” (网红) translates roughly to “internet celebrity” and denotes individuals who have amassed significant followings on Chinese social media platforms like Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok). These influencers often cultivate a highly polished image, frequently utilizing advanced editing techniques and cosmetic procedures to achieve a specific look.

During the makeup application, Lee Mi-joo playfully referenced Kwak Beom, a makeup artist known for his own transformations, and jokingly challenged him to surpass the work of another artist, Jangka Seolbeom. “Kwak Beom has become Jangka Seolbeom. Will he be able to beat Jangka Seolbeom?” she asked, before adding with confidence, “I may not be able to beat Jangka Seolbeom, but I think I can beat Bum.” This lighthearted banter highlights the competitive element within the Wanghong community, where artists and influencers constantly strive to create the most visually striking and shareable content.

Lee Mi-joo also expressed a desire to achieve a particularly stunning result, requesting the makeup artist to create a look “like a goddess, like a princess, like an AI, and like a work of art.” This ambition underscores the often-unattainable beauty standards prevalent within the Wanghong sphere, where digital enhancement and cosmetic surgery are commonplace.

The transformation itself involved a significant amount of makeup, and Lee Mi-joo joked about the possibility of developing a connection with the artist, playfully wondering, “I wonder if we’re eating Shanghai today. What if we get his number?” This adds a touch of levity to the process, acknowledging the intimate nature of the makeover experience.

Following the completion of the makeup, Lee Mi-joo ventured onto the streets of Shanghai, showcasing her new look and observing the reactions of passersby. She noted the attention she received, stating, “I feel pretty good that Chinese people are paying attention to me. There are a lot of Wanghong people here. I’m not lonely. It’s worth coming to Shanghai to get makeup done.” This observation speaks to the prevalence of the Wanghong aesthetic in China and the sense of community it fosters.

The rise of Wanghong culture in China is a significant phenomenon, reflecting broader trends in social media and beauty standards. A 2025 report from Jing Daily highlighted the growing trend of “explosive modification” makeup and cosmetic procedures, with individuals undergoing dramatic physical transformations to achieve a desired online persona. This pursuit of perfection is not without its critics, as evidenced by recent discussions surrounding the potential for unrealistic expectations and the pressure to conform to specific beauty ideals.

Interestingly, a recent incident involving a Chinese livestreamer losing 140,000 followers after a beauty filter malfunction went viral in February 2026. The glitch briefly revealed the influencer’s unfiltered appearance, sparking debate about authenticity and the impact of digital enhancements. While many viewers expressed shock, others defended the influencer, claiming they preferred her natural look. This incident underscores the growing awareness of the artificiality often present in online content and the desire for more genuine representation.

The case of Wang Jing, a Chinese influencer who reportedly spent over $141,000 USD on cosmetic surgery to achieve a “baby face,” further illustrates the lengths to which some individuals will go to attain a specific aesthetic. According to reports, over 500 people have already sought to replicate Wang Jing’s look at her cosmetic medical clinic, raising questions about individuality and the influence of social media on body image.

Lee Mi-joo’s foray into the Wanghong world provides a fascinating glimpse into this evolving landscape. Her experience, documented with humor and self-awareness, offers a nuanced perspective on the allure and complexities of China’s influencer culture. The competitive spirit, the emphasis on visual perfection, and the growing demand for authenticity all contribute to a dynamic and rapidly changing online environment.

The trend also touches on broader themes of self-perception and the impact of digital technology on identity. As highlighted in academic research, the rise of internet celebrities like Wanghong represents a new category of media star and a shift in how individuals construct and present themselves in the digital age.