Once fighting to be seen, former K-pop idol and “Emerald Hill” star Ferlyn Wong now lets her confidence speak louder

Ferlyn Wong didn’t always believe in the power of restraint. Before her debut as a K-pop idol in the girl group Skarf, she was a backup dancer fighting to be noticed with bold eyeliner, false lashes, colourful makeup, and accessories that dazzled under stage lights. “As backup dancers, we were never the main focus on stage, so we did everything we could to stand out and be ‘seen’,” she says.

But moving to Korea and entering the world of K-pop as a girl group member changed that. Touring across Seoul, Tokyo, Pattaya, Yiwu, and beyond, the 33-year-old discovered a new rhythm, not just in her career but in her aesthetic. “I grew comfortable not constantly needing to be ‘seen’ and began to appreciate the idea that sometimes, less is more,” she shares. “We supported one another by complementing each other’s strengths and filling in the gaps where needed.”

The louder, more performative looks were replaced with sophistication and precision. “Over the years, my approach to hair and makeup has evolved. These days, I prefer a natural yet polished look that enhances without overpowering. As for hair, I like to keep it simple. No more styles that scream ‘look at me’. Just clean, effortless beauty,” she says.

Living in Korea during her formative years also introduced her to the importance of skincare. “It was in Korea where I was introduced to the wide range of skincare products, and most importantly, to serum, which I believe is one of the most essential steps in any routine.”

Even on stage, where drama and impact are often expected, the Emerald Hill star finds strength in subtlety. “When my eye makeup is on point, it gives me an instant boost. And lately, I’ve been loving a fuller lip look, so I often overline to enhance the shape.”

Now back in Singapore and making her mark as an actress, Ferlyn is a firm believer in experimenting with different looks – just not as a way to mask your insecurities. ‘Trust your heart. You’ll know when something truly gives you confidence, because it’ll shine through effortlessly.’”

Credits: 

Photography: Angela Guo

Art Direction: Adeline Eng

Hair: Aung Apichai from Artistry Studios using Kevin Murphy

Makeup: Lasalle Lee using Dior Beauty

Tank top, Dior

Black top and pants, Max Mara

About this series: 

The way we dress, style our hair, and paint our faces is more than aesthetic. It’s a reflection of who we are. Like a mirror, beauty captures identity shaped by culture, connection, and the places that leave their mark on us.

In celebration of SG60, this six-part series spotlights homegrown performers who’ve taken their craft to international stages. Touring the globe has not only elevated their music and performances, but also transformed their personal style.

Here, they open up about the beauty rituals they’ve picked up abroad, the signature looks that define them on and off stage, and how life on the road continues to shape their glow.