Jo Yuri visual change
Jo Yuri visual change

Jo Yuri went from being a relatively lesser-known idol to experiencing a dramatic career breakthrough after appearing in Squid Game. She impressed audiences with her bright visuals and natural acting. With her round, innocent-looking face and delicate, doll-like features, Jo Yuri was often affectionately nicknamed “Hamzzi Yul” (cute hamster Yul) by fans. However, her latest photos have left the public stunned and shocked, as she appears drastically different from before.

During her appearance on February 23, Jo Yuri’s facial features no longer looked full and rounded but instead appeared sharper and more angular. Observers pointed out signs of mid-face sagging and a somewhat stiff smile. Many viewers commented that without reading the caption, they would not have recognized the Squid Game beauty, as her visuals seem to have declined and changed significantly.

On social media, some netizens speculated that Jo Yuri may be experiencing side effects from excessive cosmetic procedures. The 2001-born singer is rumored to have undergone rhinoplasty, double eyelid surgery, eye corner extensions, and filler injections in the under-eye area, nose, and lips. As she ages and her skin loses elasticity, some believe the fillers in the mid-face area may have sagged, while her altered nose may have lost structural support, causing her overall facial features to appear pulled downward.

Born in 2001, Jo Yuri first rose to fame in 2018 after competing on the survival show Produce 48, where she ranked third overall and debuted as a member of the project girl group IZ*ONE. In IZ*ONE, she served as the main vocalist thanks to her distinctive tone and stable technique. After the group disbanded, Jo Yuri pursued a solo career and later transitioned into acting. She is known for her bright, energetic, and approachable image, earning love from many fans.

In Squid Game Seasons 2–3, Jo Yuri portrayed Kim Jun Hee (Player 222). Her character was previously in a relationship with and became pregnant by Player 333, Myung Gi (played by Im Si Wan), an irresponsible and unsettling man. The complex relationship with Myung Gi—especially the childbirth scene involving her character—left many viewers feeling frustrated.