Doctor X: Ryoko Yonekura’s Sultry Chic vs. Kim Ji-Won’s Au Naturel Look

From her sweet, energetic profile in her previous dramas, Kim Ji-won transitioned into a fierce woman in the Korean adaptation of Doctor X: Mafia in White. She returned with a fresh look: a side bob, ageless skin, and a vibrant appeal that sharply contrasts with her previous character’s cute curtain bangs, hyper-feminine wavy length, and classy glam attire. 

Photo via @sbsdrama.official

The renowned K-drama actress once again pulled the heartstrings of the audience through her unquestionable acting prowess. With her character portrayal and look as Gye Su-jeong? No words to describe it. She’s as excellent as ever! 

Oftentimes, your look and makeup emanate your personality. That’s the case with Ryoko Yonekura when she portrayed Michiko Daimon, the protagonist of the OG Japanese series, Doctor-X: Surgeon Michiko Daimon. Her depiction is a mix of 2000s beauty allure and a high-sultry vibe, featuring a variety of haircuts such as an above-the-shoulder layered cut with Nihon-style blunt bangs and an above-the-chin side bob, both encapsulating Michiko’s vibrancy in the show. 

Photo via TV Asahi

Ryoko’s portrayal also leaned into girl-boss energy, with light comedic relief to keep the audience entertained. Michiko had a strong personality and striking glitz in the show: ultra-shine gloss, thin eyebrows, light blush, and mascara-coated lashes. These elements were executed flawlessly, concluding the show with positive reviews. 

Photo via Prime Video

Kim Ji-won, on the other hand, has her own portrayal and interpretation of the protagonist in the Korean version. Veered away from the voluptuous type of look and closer to a more conservative and ethereal beauty glow. 

Photo via @sbsdrama.official

Known for her flawless skin and almost no-makeup look in her dramas, Ji-won brought these beauty components to Doctor X. She reinvented the iconic surgeon’s visuals through dynamic, fresh, and angelic traits—contemporarily enchanting and embodying a clean beauty. 

Photo via @sbsdrama.official

Michiko Daimon/Gye Su-jeong’s unapologetic personality was retained; her look, however, had an influence of K-beauty standards on it: barefaced, light contours, and soft eye pigments. Ji-won has always been clear about her dedication to her craft, especially to the characters she portrays. She always wants to give a fresh take every time she internalizes a new role, currently translated through her sleek and cool tone palette as Su-jeong. 

From Sultry Chic to Au Naturel: How Kim Ji-won Reimagined Ryoko Yonekura’s Looks in Doctor XThese women uniquely portrayed Dr. X marvelously—each has their own distinct approach that’s trending and relevant to their timeline. Consequently, we’re amazed by how both Kim Ji-won and Ryoko Yonekura slayed their characters’ looks in their respective series.