South Korea's acclaimed character actress Kim Joo-ryoung makes her modeling debut in Numéro TOKYO's September issue!

Renowned character actress Kim Joo-ryoung, known for her powerful performances that transform the atmosphere of any story, makes her modeling debut in the September issue of Numéro TOKYO, released on July 28 (Tue).

Kim Joo-ryoung left a strong impression worldwide with her unforgettable portrayal of Player 212 Han Mi-nyeo—a ruthless woman who stops at nothing to achieve her goals—in Season 1 of the Netflix series Squid Game. She has also demonstrated her commanding presence in the Nippon TV drama series There Is No Tree That Won't Fall No Matter How Many Times You Cut It, where she delivered a passionate performance as Kyong-hwa, the adoptive mother of Kim Min-suk (played by Jun Shison).

Now, she appears in the "Anna Tanaka's Real Mode" feature of Numéro TOKYO's September issue, unveiling a completely new side of herself across a 10-page fashion story centered around bags. "I feel as if I've discovered a new version of myself," she says—revealing a side that's distinct from her acting persona.

Interestingly, her participation began when she personally sent a direct message via Instagram to Anna Tanaka, the magazine's Editorial Director. What drove her to take this bold step? In this issue, she opens up about the mindset behind playing villainous roles, as well as a certain personal ritual she never skips when preparing for a character.

[Excerpt from the interview] —We heard you personally reached out to Anna Tanaka, Editorial Director of Numéro TOKYO, via DM. What motivated you to make that approach?

"I've always wanted to appear in a fashion magazine because I see it as a space where I can express a side of myself different from my acting self. At the time, I was filming a drama in Japan, which sparked my interest in Japanese media, and I started researching various outlets. That's when I came across Numéro TOKYO. I was drawn to the magazine's bold, independent spirit and its ability to bring out the charm and individuality inherent in people.

As I dug deeper, I learned about Editorial Director Anna Tanaka and thought she was such a cool unnie (older sister). I really wanted to create something together with her, so I sent her a DM. I'm truly grateful for her sincere and warm reply, and for her kind acceptance."

The collaboration between Numéro TOKYO and Kim Joo-ryoung has resulted in a special visual showcase of creative energy. Additionally, the full interview will be published on Numero.jp, complementing the print feature. Don't miss the September 2026 issue of Numéro TOKYO, releasing on July 28 (Tue)!

Photos: Yusuke Miyazaki Fashion Director: Ako Tanaka Hair: Tetsuya Yamanaka Makeup: Yuka Washizu Interviewer & Text: Saki Shibata Edit: Makoto Matsuoka

[Publication Information]

Numéro TOKYO September 2026 Issue

Release Date: July 28, 2026 (Tue)

※Release dates may vary by region Price: 990 yen (tax included)

※Content is identical to the standard edition

・Format: A4 variant, softcover, perfect binding

・Publisher: Fusosha Publishing Co., Ltd.

[Purchase Links]

・Amazon

https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0GZ82J5JF

◆For media inquiries or article requests regarding the magazine

Fusosha Publishing Co., Ltd. Publicity & PR Department

senden@fusosha.co.jp