It’s been a long time coming, but it seems 2026 is the year that transparency surrounding aesthetic procedures reaches an all-time high. Following Khloé Kardashian’s public disclosure of the procedures she has done, a phenomenon, of sorts, has sprung forth. Individuals within the beauty sphere now are more comfortable than ever speaking up on aesthetics as a whole, with there being a growing awareness of tried-and-tested treatments in the market. Amongst them, of course, is skin boosters and the like; a conversation that has been bolstered by the nomination of renowned Korean actress, Song Hye-kyo, as Merz Aesthetic’s Asia-Pacific ambassador of their newly-released biomimetic hyaluronic acid filler.
“Although it was my first time working with this brand, all the staff involved were people I worked with closely for a long time. The campaign video you just saw was filmed with a cinematographer I’ve worked with for many years, so the atmosphere made me feel very comfortable,” Song states with a smile. “That’s why the time felt even more meaningful to me.”
View this post on Instagram
Meaningful is perhaps the best way to put it. It is certainly in line with Merz Aesthetics’s philosophy, emphasised by Lawrence Siow, the president of Merz Aesthetics Asia-Pacific region. “We are no longer seeking enhancements just for the sake of change,” he points out, before addressing the intention behind the launch of this specific biomimetic hyaluronic acid filler.
Designed to prioritise understated outcomes, the science behind said biomimetic hyaluronic acid filler ensures that it integrates more evenly into the skin to address issues in the vein of volume loss and wrinkles; an assurance and debunking of an age-old notion that specific procedures causes an unnatural appearance.
Song Hye-kyo—long-revered for her effortless and innate beauty—thus seemed like a pitch-perfect choice. We sit down with her to find out more about her skincare journey, from what goes into her regime and what she does on days where her complexion is less-than-cooperative.
First things first: how do you feel being here today?
I recently finished filming a drama. It was a year-long project and after completing it with so much effort, it feels really nice to meet everyone up close on a stage like this. I’m still carrying emotions from the drama, but meeting so many people today feels refreshing.
What does beauty mean to you, and how has your meaning of beauty evolved over the years?
Of course, taking care of your appearance is important. We all put effort into managing that, but I think what matters most is the heart. Having a good mindset even in difficult situations, trying to think as positively as possible… When you have that kind of mindset, your face naturally looks better. Your overall demeanour becomes softer, making you appear more relaxed and beautiful. Your inner state is the most important thing.
If you could send a voice note to your past self about beauty, what would you say?
My answer would be similar to what I said earlier. When I was younger, I didn’t have much space for emotion as I do now, and I was always busy. I didn’t spend as much time loving myself back then, so if I could speak to my past self, I’ll tell her to love herself even more. Even when I’m feeling down or facing difficult situations, I’ll tell myself to focus on positive thoughts because that inner strength and confidence eventually shows on your face.
What is your best tip for looking and feeling confident?
I think I look the most confident when I’m working hard. When I’m fully focused on my work, that’s when I look and feel the best. Even when I look at my friends, they seem the most confident and attractive when they are deeply immersed in something.
View this post on Instagram
Tell us in detail about your skincare routine.
It’s honestly very similar to other women’s routines. Firstly, thoroughly removing make-up is the most important thing. Then, I apply eye cream, followed by a toner, lotion and at night, a night cream. When I’m not filming, I also make an effort to get professional treatments.
Some people might be thinking: “I do the same thing, why am I not Song Hye-kyo?” But I think there was a hint earlier—even during your rest periods, you prepare yourself with dedication.
At my age, I really can’t afford to not take care of myself. When I have days off, I really try since my appearance is a part of my job. I try to take care of myself whenever I can.
Do you ever have bad skin days, and how do you deal with them when you do?
When I’m filming dramas, we shoot almost everyday, and we are often traveling to different regions. So my skin can get dry, and I look tired at times. Since shoot locations don’t offer much options, I try to use sheet masks. And even if it’s just for a short time, I make an effort to get sleep.
