A shaved head and quiet intensity command attention on international runways. This South Korean talent redefines traditional beauty standards with his striking androgynous presence.
Born as Su Min in South Korea, he adopted the professional name Xu Meen. His career now spans the globe’s most influential fashion capitals.
Based in London and represented by IMG Models Worldwide, his reach extends to New York, Paris, Milan, Seoul, and Los Angeles. This makes him a truly international presence in contemporary fashion.
His rapid ascent tells a compelling story. In less than three years, he rose from Model of the Week to Top 50 status. The industry clearly hungers for fresh, diverse representation.
Beyond the striking looks, he carries himself with humility. Designers and audiences alike respond to his grounded approach. His journey from discovery to runway royalty demonstrates how one talent can transform the global fashion landscape.
Early Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Fashion’s next star was found not in an agency, but among everyday pedestrians. The industry needed fresh perspectives, and a casting director spotted exactly that during a routine city walk.
Discovery and Scouting in 2017
That moment in 2017 proved transformative. A sharp-eyed professional recognized something special—a look that defied easy categorization. The androgynous features combined with magnetic presence created immediate impact.
Traditional casting norms were being challenged across fashion. This discovery arrived as the industry embraced diversity and fluid representation. The timing was perfect for a model who represented broader identity spectrums.
Initial Breakthrough and Modeling Debut
Within months of being scouted, Xu Meen signed with IMG Models. His debut marked the start of a rapid international climb. The foundation was laid for what would become a prestigious portfolio.
What set him apart went beyond physical appearance. A grounded approach and genuine humility characterized his early career. He expressed gratitude for opportunities, describing the journey as fantastic from the beginning.
That first year established everything. The humble beginnings on a city street transformed into runway readiness. The fashion world had found its new voice.
Signature Style and Runway Royalty
The runway found its new ruler not in flamboyance, but in quiet, androgynous power. This unique presence became a staple for the world’s most influential fashion houses.
Designers repeatedly chose him for his ability to embody any vision. He moved through seasons as a constant and celebrated figure.
Embracing an Androgynous Aesthetic
Xu Meen’s signature look broke the mold. A shaved head and sharp bone structure created an ethereal quality.
His appearance transcended traditional gender labels. This allowed him to project both strength and softness with equal conviction.
He became a perfect canvas for designers. They could explore fluidity and structure through his versatile presence.
Iconic Runway Moments with Top Designers
His portfolio reads like a directory of fashion elite. He walked for houses like Balmain, Fendi, and Louis Vuitton.
Recent seasons solidified his status. Shows for Vetements, Dolce & Gabbana, and Issey Miyake featured his commanding walk.
His versatility was his greatest asset. He shifted effortlessly from Casablanca’s romantic elegance to Heliot Emil’s futuristic edge.
Each appearance was more than a walk. It was a statement on the expanding definition of modern masculinity.
Xu Meen: Redefining Global Fashion Impact
The digital realm became the next frontier for this fashion innovator’s distinctive aesthetic. His influence now spans both physical runways and virtual worlds.
Influence Across International Fashion Capitals
This model’s presence reshapes fashion perception in major cities worldwide. Each location absorbs his unique perspective differently.
He carries a responsibility to represent more than personal success. His visibility opens doors for future generations in the industry.
| Fashion Capital | Impact Type | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Commercial Innovation | Blending high fashion with streetwear aesthetics |
| Paris | Artistic Legacy | Reinterpreting classic elegance with modern fluidity |
| Milan | Craftsmanship Dialogue | Connecting traditional tailoring with androgynous design |
| Seoul | Cultural Bridge | Exporting Korean beauty standards to global audiences |
| Los Angeles | Digital Integration | Merging entertainment industry with fashion forwardness |
Digital Culture and the Video Game Crossover
Ghostrunner featured his likeness as main character Jack (GR-74). The cyberpunk setting perfectly matched his futuristic appeal.
This crossover demonstrates relevance beyond traditional media. It reaches audiences who experience fashion through gaming.
Looking ahead, he expresses strong interest in art direction. His future may involve shaping the industry from behind the camera.
Landing High-Profile Campaigns and Editorial Success
Beyond the catwalk, his image became a sought-after commodity for luxury brand campaigns worldwide. The same quiet intensity that defined his runway presence translated powerfully to still photography.
Collaborations with Prestigious Fashion Houses
Major fashion houses recognized his unique commercial appeal. Brands like Berluti, COS, and Kenzo tapped him for their global campaigns.
His portfolio includes work with Moncler, H&M, and Dolce & Gabbana. A standout moment came with MCM’s Spring 2024 campaign alongside Cara Delevingne.
These partnerships represent more than advertising. They showcase trust from prestigious houses in his ability to embody their aesthetic vision.
Striking Magazine Covers and Editorial Features
Editorially, Xu Meen became an international favorite. His face graced publications like Numéro France and Vogue Italia.
With over ten magazine covers to his name, he influences men’s fashion photography. GQ Korea and Esquire Singapore frequently feature his ethereal quality.
The editorial work often highlights bold, avant-garde styling. Photographers use his distinctive features to explore new visual languages.
Final Reflections on a Trailblazing Modeling Career
The journey from an unexpected discovery to an industry fixture offers a new blueprint for success. Xu Meen’s path proves that high achievement and genuine humility are not mutually exclusive.
He carries a deep sense of responsibility. His work represents a shift toward more fluid and authentic beauty standards on the global stage.
He described the experience as a fantastic journey of learning about diverse cultures. This gratitude shapes his grounded approach to every opportunity.
His vision now looks beyond modeling. A strong interest in art direction and casting signals a future where he shapes narratives from behind the camera.
Having experienced the power of being discovered, he understands the importance of inclusive casting decisions. His legacy is one of quiet intensity, redefining what strength and beauty can be.
