From Han to Ouri: How Miss Darcei and TIRTIR Are Redefining Inclusivity in K-Beauty
K-Beauty is renowned for its innovation and global influence, but the beauty industry today also stands for inclusivity, representation, and authenticity. The partnership between Miss Darcei and TIRTIR embodies these values, showing how meaningful relationships can be built through understanding and compassion, guided by the deeply rooted Korean cultural concepts of Han (한), Nunchi (눈치), Jeong (정), and Ouri (우리).
This is a masterclass on redefining East-West connections, via Emotional Korean Concepts.
This feels very similar to the development of a K-Drama, where the main protagonist is going through a starting situation that is painful, to end up in a fairytale ending full of Jeong, the "Ouri".
1. Han (한): The Pain of Exclusion
At the foundation of this journey is Han (한), a deeply emotional concept rooted in a sense of sorrow or exclusion. In the beauty world, many people of colour have long experienced Han due to the lack of products catering to their skin tones. This feeling of being left out resonated with Miss Darcei, who carried the desire for change.
Recognising the need for inclusivity, Miss Darcei raised awareness through her platform, expressing the feelings of Han shared by many in her community. Her message was clear and powerful, channelling this pain into a purposeful call for greater representation in K-Beauty.
2. Nunchi (눈치): Building Connection Through Understanding
Nunchi (눈치)—the Korean ability to perceive and respond to others' unspoken needs—played a crucial role in turning this moment into meaningful progress. Miss Darcei, with her thoughtful communication, created an opening for dialogue, understanding the emotions of her followers and representing their desire for inclusivity.
TIRTIR responded with their own Nunchi (눈치), recognising the significance of her message. They engaged actively with Miss Darcei, seeking to understand the needs of people of colour within the beauty industry. This ability to listen and act on unspoken feelings allowed TIRTIR to move forward, creating a more inclusive product line and strengthening their relationship with a wider audience.
3. Jeong (정): A Compassionate Partnership
Through their collaboration, Miss Darcei and TIRTIR demonstrated Jeong (정), the concept of deep emotional connection and mutual care. As TIRTIR expanded their product offerings to include more diverse shades, their commitment to inclusivity became a reflection of the shared values between them and Miss Darcei.
This relationship blossomed into a compassionate partnership. Together, they cultivated an environment of care and respect, where the voices of previously underrepresented communities were heard and embraced.
Their partnership became a symbol of Jeong (정), showing how collaboration can build trust and foster positive change in the beauty industry.
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4. Ouri (우리): Creating a Community of Belonging
At the heart of this collaboration is Ouri (우리), the Korean concept of "we" or "us." Miss Darcei and TIRTIR built more than just a partnership—they created a thriving community where everyone feels represented and valued. Their joint efforts sparked a movement towards inclusivity, inviting people from all backgrounds to feel a part of something bigger.
The community that Miss Darcei and TIRTIR built resembles a fandom, much like those seen in K-pop culture (so much that their story went viral in Korea by being showcased on newschannels). This fandom, in essence, envelops both Miss Darcei and TIRTIR, connecting people through their shared love for beauty and powerful storytelling. Just as fans rally around their favourite K-pop idols for the stories and connections they create, the community formed around Miss Darcei and TIRTIR is drawn to their authentic narrative of inclusivity and care. Through their partnership, they crafted a compelling story that people wanted to be a part of, elevating their community into a vibrant, supportive fandom.
Through their combined actions, Miss Darcei and TIRTIR inspired a collective identity rooted in Ouri (우리). This sense of belonging became the foundation for a diverse and inclusive beauty community, where people could celebrate their individuality while sharing in a collective space of unity and respect.
Conclusion: A Journey of Inclusivity and Unity
The partnership between Miss Darcei and TIRTIR, from Han (한) to Ouri (우리), represents a powerful journey of empathy, understanding, and action. By addressing the Han of exclusion and responding with Nunchi (눈치), they nurtured a relationship built on Jeong (정)—compassion and mutual respect. Together, they formed an Ouri (우리) that embraces all, setting a new standard for inclusivity in the beauty industry.
This journey showcases the importance of listening, taking action, and building genuine relationships that go beyond products. Miss Darcei and TIRTIR have created a community where beauty is for everyone, reflecting the true essence of Ouri (우리)—a shared identity that celebrates diversity, compassion, and collective strength.
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Disclaimer : All images used in this analysis belong to TIRTIR AND MISSDARCEI, and I do not claim ownership of them.
ALL COPY OF MY INTELLECTUAL WORK NEEDS TO BE PERMITTED.
IS&T Manager at SEPHORA Middle-East (LMVH Group)
3moInsightful! thank you