'Just Makeup' Crowns K-Beauty Legend as Paris Geumson Takes the Top Prize Amidst Record-Breaking Success

Coupang Play's entertainment show 'Just Makeup' has triumphantly concluded its grand survival journey, crowning a new K-beauty legend in its final episode aired on the 7th (Friday).

The show garnered immense popularity, ranking first in viewer satisfaction, maintaining the No. 1 spot for five consecutive weeks on Coupang Play's most-watched list, achieving an IMDb rating of 8.5, and breaking into the TOP 10 on OTT platforms in seven countries. This global acclaim solidifies its title as the 'Most Buzzworthy Entertainment Program of the Second Half of 2025'.

'Just Makeup' pitted top makeup artists representing K-beauty on a global scale, each showcasing their unique artistry in an intense competition. The grand finale, themed 'DREAMS,' saw the final three contestants – Paris Geumson, Son Tail, and Oh Dolce Vita – deliver legendary stages that transcended mere makeup to embody art, philosophy, and identity.

The final mission challenged the artists to realize their dream worlds through makeup photoshoots, with the winning work set to grace the December cover of 'Harper's Bazaar'. Veteran actresses Kim Young-ok, Ban Hyo-jung, and Jeong Hye-seon served as muses, with Son Tail choosing Kim Young-ok, Paris Geumson selecting Ban Hyo-jung, and Oh Dolce Vita working with Jeong Hye-seon, creating a compelling showdown between established professionals, international freelancers, and high-end salon artists.

Oh Dolce Vita presented 'Hero Standing Above Time,' interpreting actress Jeong Hye-seon's dream of an enduring legacy through makeup, featuring signature deep-set eye makeup expressing both tears and emptiness, and paying homage to the film 'Madame From Hong Kong.'

Son Tail's creation, 'Queen Adorned by Time,' captured the profound presence of actress Kim Young-ok, embracing the beauty of aging with shading techniques that highlighted, rather than concealed, wrinkles. Reflecting Kim Young-ok's admiration for Queen Elizabeth, blush was added to create an image of 'the most beautiful queen in the world, elegantly embracing time.' Actress Kim Young-ok praised the artist, stating, "The person who did this for me was wondrous."

Paris Geumson's concept, 'Guide of Souls,' depicted actress Ban Hyo-jung as a grim reaper and a spiritual guide, using black butterflies and wolves to symbolize both the shadow of death and a warm, guiding presence beyond it. The intense eye makeup conveyed firm resolve and deep emotion, embodying Paris Geumson's signature sensibility and storytelling. Ban Hyo-jung was astonished, remarking, "I couldn't help but be in awe."

In the end, Paris Geumson received a unanimous decision from the four judges, earning the grand prize of 300 million KRW and the title of K-beauty legend. She expressed her emotions, stating, "While preparing, I wondered if I could have the same passion I had when I first started makeup at 20. I feel like I've broken through something."

Son Tail shared, "I'm truly satisfied. I never imagined I'd come this far, and I'm grateful for the growth I've experienced." Oh Dolce Vita added, "I'm so happy to have had this precious opportunity and to have met so many wonderful people, including those I admire."

'Just Makeup' has redefined the survival variety genre, resonating with viewers through its portrayal of healthy competition, professionalism, and personal growth rooted in a passion for beauty. Following the finale, viewers flooded social media with reactions like, "The best program of the second half of 2025," "No words needed. I received the greatest感動 (emotion/inspiration) through makeup," "As expected, Paris Geumson!", "Paris Geumson's photoshoot is legendary," "I felt the感動 (emotion/inspiration) of makeup as an art form," "Following 'University War,' another heartwarming survival from Coupang Play," and "Can't wait for Season 2!"

Director Shim Woo-jin expressed his gratitude, "I sincerely thank all the viewers who loved 'Just Makeup.' It's meaningful that many people felt closer to the culture of 'makeup' and sympathized with its artistry and sincerity." He added, "I extend my deep gratitude to the artists who poured their passion until the end, the judges who provided their sincere perspective, and MC Lee Hyori for adding warmth to this journey. Although the final episode has aired, I hope the感動 (emotion/inspiration) and art that bloomed within it will be remembered for a long time."

All episodes of 'Just Makeup' are available for free streaming on Coupang Play, accessible to both Coupang Wow members and general members.

Korean netizens are highly praising the show, with comments like: "This is really the best program of the second half of 2025," "I was goosebumped watching Paris Geumson's photoshoot. Makeup can deliver such emotion," and "Coupang Play really knows how to make good shows! After 'University War,' this is another masterpiece. Please, make Season 2!". Many are enthusiastically requesting a second season.