Asia is one of the most important markets for both new and experienced models. Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea, Taipei, and other Asian markets are considered essential steps for models looking to develop their skills and build a strong network of contacts with industry professionals.

Once a model has successfully worked in Asia, they officially become a "professional model," and their chances of being signed by a major agency in New York, Milan, Paris, London, and other important markets significantly increase. It is also much easier to obtain work permits and visas to work in other countries.

Types of Models Working in Asia
Like any modeling market, Asian modeling agencies represent different types of models, including men, women, children, editorial models, and commercial models.

One interesting aspect of Asian agencies and clients is that they often work with models who are shorter than those typically found in American or European markets. Female models can be as short as 5'6" and male models can start at 5'10". Some models who are even shorter manage to find work in Asia.

Instead of focusing solely on height, agencies look at a model's overall features, such as skin, hair, teeth quality, and pleasant personality.

Previous Modeling Experience is Not Essential
Previous modeling experience is not necessary to work in Asia, but attention to detail is crucial. It is recommended to know how to work on set with photographers and stylists and to do at least three or four test shoots (or local work in your hometown) before entering the Asian market.

Agencies will cover travel expenses
Almost all agencies in Asia will offer to advance your plane ticket and accommodation expenses. The agency will also cover the cost of your composite cards, website fees, and provide some pocket money.

Agencies are willing to cover travel expenses to help you get started, and you will be expected to repay them when you start booking jobs. If you don't earn enough to repay the agency, they will absorb the loss, and you won't have to reimburse them from your own pocket.

Agencies may also offer a model a "guarantee," which is a fixed amount of income that the model will be assured of earning, regardless of whether they actually earn that amount. When a model becomes popular with the agency's clients, appears in magazine pages, or gains experience in markets like New York, Paris, and Milan, their guarantee can range from $20,000 to $30,000 or more for a two-month stay. Top models can receive guarantees of over $150,000 for just a two-month stay.

Parents can accompany younger models
A model who is traveling for the first time or is under 18 can be accompanied by their parents. Agencies are used to this and it is never a problem. Parents will need to cover their own travel and accommodation expenses and can choose to stay for just a few weeks or for the entire duration of the contract.

The market is active year-round
Some modeling markets are only active during specific times of the year. However, the Asian market can be busy all year round. The summer months are usually the most competitive as many high school students join during that time. If you can travel in the spring, fall, or winter, you may have a better chance of landing modeling contracts.

Two-month contracts
Models are typically offered two-month contracts; however, the actual duration of the contract will depend on the number of bookings received and client response.

How to Obtain Representation by Asian Agencies
We do not recommend tackling the Asian modeling market on your own or before having a good "mother agency" behind you. It is always better to have such an agency to promote you in international markets. A good mother agency will know which are the best agencies for your particular look and how to plan and manage your long-term career. Additionally, since legal documents, travel visas, and other contracts need to be reviewed, an experienced mother agent can be invaluable in helping you understand the significance of all these aspects.