Actor Yang Se-jong's appearance at the press conference for his new film Low Life is making headlines — but not for the reasons the film's team might have expected.

The event, held on July 8 in Seoul, was intended to promote the upcoming crime drama, but it was Yang's noticeably altered appearance that caught the attention of both the media and fans.
Once considered one of Korea's most promising leading men, the 32-year-old actor looked markedly different than his Doona! days, where he starred alongside beloved actress Suzy.

With a fuller face, tired expression, and a noticeably casual style, Yang's new look quickly became the center of conversation.

Netizens flooded online platforms with mixed reactions.

"Are you sure that's really Yang Se-jong?" one fan wrote on social media. Another commented, "He doesn't look healthy at all. Could he be sick?"

Others speculated about potential health concerns, stress, or injury.

Some pointed to rumors that Yang suffered an ankle injury, which may have prevented him from maintaining his regular boxing workouts — an activity he previously credited for helping him stay physically and mentally balanced.

"He used to be so attractive... what happened?" one post read. "His looks were top-tier before enlisting, now I barely recognize him," another added.

Despite the swirl of comments, Yang has not publicly addressed the speculation.
Yang Se-jong first debuted as a model in 2011 before transitioning into acting in 2016.

He gained critical acclaim through hit series like Dr. Romantic, Duel, Still 17, and My Country: The New Age.

His chemistry with Suzy in Netflix's Doona! further elevated his profile, with many fans hailing them as a perfect visual match.

While some continue to express disappointment over the shift in his image, others defended the actor's right to change, highlighting the pressure celebrities face to maintain unrealistic standards.

"Actors are human too," one supporter wrote. "He owes no one an explanation for how he looks."

Low Life, which explores the descent of an ordinary man into Seoul's criminal underworld, is slated for release later this year.

Whether Yang Se-jong's performance will redirect attention back to the screen remains to be seen.