Eoljjang

Eoljjang (Korean: 얼짱), also spelled as Ulzzang or Uljjang (Korean pronunciation: [ʌl.tɕ͈äŋ]), is a popular South Korean term literally meaning "best face" or "good-looking". Originally used as a slang term, this word in the English lexicon has evolved into describing a person that follows specific style of fashion. A person desiring eoljjang status would gain popularity on the internet through entering contests where their photos are judged and chosen by voters, though many became well-known eoljjangs from having popular Cyworld accounts or have gained popularity in school for being attractive.

Many eoljjangs model for popular Korean fashion websites, and some have entered the Korean entertainment business and have since risen to stardom.

Although the word originated in South Korea, followers of such trends could be seen in Japan, China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Europe, the United States and Canada.^[1]

Etymology

The word "eoljjang", literally "best face", is derived from the words eolgul (Korean: "얼굴") meaning "face"; and jjang (Korean: "짱") a slang term meaning "best". The term is often used by netizens for contests competing for the title of "eoljjang", but it has since developed into a subculture or style, rather than a competition event.

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