STAYC’s Yoon Shines in GQ Korea’s January 2026 Issue: A High-Fashion Editorial Breakdown

Photo Credits: GQ Korea High Up Entertainment

STAYC’s Yoon has stepped into the spotlight of GQ Korea’s January 2026 issue, delivering a striking editorial that marries dreamy sophistication with a Gen Z edge. The pictorial, shot by photographer Yoon Ji Yong and styled by Lee Jong Hyun, captures Yoon in a series of transformative looks that highlight her evolving style and newfound versatility beyond the K-pop stage. With a gaze both profound and enigmatic, Yoon navigates from casual, effortless moods to refined, high-fashion concepts, embodying the magazine’s theme of “opening the door to 2026”.

Behind the Pictorial

The shoot took place at the Grand Mercure Imperial Palace Seoul Gangnam, lending a luxurious backdrop to Yoon’s editorial journey. Hair by Lee Hyun Woo and makeup by Choi Min Seok emphasize a clean, modern aesthetic—Yoon’s signature bangs, long a staple of her look, are notably absent, replaced by long, flowing extensions that expose her forehead and frame her face with a fresh, grown-up elegance. The overall styling leans into minimalist chic, with tailored blazers, sleek silhouettes, and subtle accessories that let Yoon’s expressive features shine.

Styling and Hair/Makeup Details

Look 1 (Office Chic): Yoon appears in a sharp, monochrome blazer paired with wide-leg trousers, channeling a Gen Z office worker vibe. Her hair is parted to the side, revealing her forehead, while her makeup features a natural, dewy finish with a soft pink lip and defined brows.
Look 2 (Sophisticated Glamour): For a more refined look, Yoon dons a silk slip dress in muted tones, accessorized with delicate gold jewelry. Her hair is styled in loose waves, and her makeup focuses on glowing skin, a subtle winged liner, and a nude lip.
Look 3 (Casual Edge): In a relaxed yet stylish ensemble of oversized knitwear and tailored shorts, Yoon’s hair is worn down with a center part, and her makeup is pared back to highlight her fresh-faced glow.

Backstory and Impact

Yoon’s GQ Korea feature arrives at a pivotal moment in her career. Having recently taken on her first acting role in the drama “Beloved Death,” she reflects on her immersion in the character and her growth as an artist. The pictorial also coincides with STAYC’s global momentum, as the group prepares to release their first full-length Japanese album, “STAY ALIVE,” in February 2026. Yoon’s editorial work further cements her status as a style icon, blending youthful energy with a sophisticated, editorial sensibility.