Icon Lee Hyori returns as an MC for a survival program after 16 years. On the afternoon of the 1st, a production presentation for the Coupang Play variety show "Just Makeup" was held at Pullman Ambassador Seoul Eastpole in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by PD Shim Woo-jin, PD Park Sung-hwan, singer Lee Hyori, makeup artist Jung Saem Mool, Seo Ok, Lee Sa-bae, and Lee Jin-soo.

"Just Makeup" is a large-scale makeup survival program where makeup artists representing K-beauty compete with their own unique styles. Lee Hyori serves as the MC of this program. PD Shim explained the reason for selecting Lee Hyori as MC: "When discussing K-beauty, you cannot leave Lee Hyori out. Although she said she wasn't good at scripted MC work, she freely hosted in her own style, and we were more than 100% satisfied. If there is a season 2, I would like her to be the MC again."

Regarding the selection criteria for participants, PD Shim said, "We looked for people with their own philosophy. It's not just about applying makeup beautifully, but about the thoughts and philosophy behind it. After thorough inquiries, we gathered 60 top makeup artists."

Lee Hyori said, "I think it's been about 10 years since I last stood at an event like this. It feels good to be photographed and brings back old memories. Hosting this survival program with a script wasn't easy. I'm confident in wit, but pinpointing the exact points was difficult." She continued, "Makeup has been like a friend to me, so I was so interested that I even offered to be the MC myself. Watching the makeup artists compete made me feel touched and grateful. I personally had a fun time realizing how diverse makeup can be."

When asked about makeup styles she wants to try, Lee Hyori said, "I've received all kinds of makeup. I've had makeup done by more than half of the participants. Until now, I was always in the spotlight, but now I want to support them. I want to share my spotlight." She mentioned PD Jeon Hyun-moo and Kim Sung-joo as MCs she referred to, adding, "I studied how they steer the show and highlight points by watching their broadcasts."

PD Park expressed confidence in the scale of the program. He said, "The set production cost was considerable. Makeup artists are usually behind the scenes, but this time they get to be on stage, so we wanted to make it like a great show." Prize money will be awarded to the first-place winner. PD Shim said, "There is a prize that won't leave anyone disappointed, and the final mission includes a winning privilege. The mission itself is a privilege, so please pay attention to the final mission."

Jung Saem Mool participates as a judge as a legend of K-beauty. He said, "I've spent a long time as a makeup artist, but this is the first time I've looked at others. I empathized deeply. I cried a lot and got excited. I can't say much in detail, but I felt something strongly and shed tears," recalling moments when he empathized with the participants.

Lee Sa-bae explained the judging criteria: "I tried to view it from the public's perspective. I focused on whether the makeup conveyed a story and made my heart beat." Lee Hyori agreed, saying, "I wondered if such a thing existed, but it does."

Regarding memorable participants, Lee Hyori said, "I hoped the first-generation makeup artists would do well. They struggled physically during overnight shoots. As a first-generation idol myself, I felt supportive." When asked about K-beauty, PD Shim explained, "Before K-pop and K-food, K-beauty was already loved. I think we caught the wave of the K-beauty boom well."

Lee Hyori said, "Now, seeing overseas fans follow Korean singers' makeup and purchase products makes me proud. I think this program will reveal the reason. The sincerity and dedication of makeup artists seem to have created today's K-beauty." Jung Saem Mool emphasized, "Korean makeup artists have a core. Overcoming deficiencies and working diligently is the key that created K-culture."

Fairness is also an important factor in this survival program. PD Park said, "We left it entirely to the judges and followed their decisions. There could be unfairness due to the order, but we tried to ensure fairness by judging in the order of who finishes quickly." Seo Ok emphasized, "We carefully checked basic things like whether eyelashes were well attached and if the lines were symmetrical. Emotion and harmony are important, but we also checked the basics, so there's no need to worry."

The makeup model lineup is also attracting attention. Actors Kim Tae-hee, Lee Yoo-young, and Han Ye-seul appear. Lee Hyori explained, "They are not the main focus. If very beautiful actresses appear, it could cause fairness issues. That's why they are not the main focus." She added, "Since I didn't create the program, I'm curious how confident the PDs are. I was worried whether makeup is only a women's domain and if male viewers and older people would watch. But as we filmed, it wasn't just about makeup; it contained many life stories, so I think it will be enjoyable."

Lee Hyori added, "The person who wins first place isn't necessarily the best makeup artist. I can say they are the one who passed each mission excellently. In survival, if you falter even a little, you get eliminated." "Just Makeup" will premiere on the 3rd at 8 PM.