Award-winning actress Jeon Do-yeon and fast-rising singer Younha were among 20 female role models selected by Women News. In marking the 20th anniversary of its founding, Korea’s leading newspaper for women selected women who have distinguished themselves in their respective field by demonstrating their pioneering and indomitable spirit.

Cannes International Film Festival’s best actress award winner Jeon was selected for continuing to challenge herself to be the best in the world despite having already reached the pinnacle. Younha was applauded for pursuing her dream in the face of various difficulties. She dropped out of high school and went to Japan by herself to become a singer at the tender age of 15 without any support from an agency.

In addition to Jeon and Younha, the list of role models included news anchor Kim Ju-ha, world-renowned cellist Hannah Chang, Olympic weightlifting champion Jang Mi-ran, professional game player Seo Ji-soo, and alpinist Kim Young-mi.