Talking about real life here. I think people get surprised seeing a celebrity but someone like who isn't impressed by celebrity status just see them without that halo factor. My first impression seeing idols is that their makeup is turned to 11, like such a thick and polished layering that I'd describe it like flesh lacquer. Also I'm someone who is more used to no-make up or 'natural' style versus heavy makeup.
Some idols who look very impressive on screen are different in person, from personal experience, Miyeon, fromis Nakyung, Yoona. I'm sorry to say it but I had to play up Miyeon's visual when I talked to her "oh, you look like a princess" but my mind just though she looked like a regular cute girl. When I saw Yoona IRL I didn't think it was worth giving a second look because her visual didn't impress me. Anyway, I'm not calling these idols unattractive, they are, but aren't as impressive as on screen.
However, their bodies are still consistent. If they are known to have nice bodies on screen it would also carry in real life, and sometimes even more attractive. But then when backup dancers are also on stage they may seem more sexier than the idols, especially the voluptuous backup dancers.
I say idol idol visuals are exaggerated because when I compared them to certain other people (just regular people), the visuals of those other people was almost heart attack inducing. It was that impressive. I'd stan in a second but I can't because they aren't celebrities. Obviously compared to the majority of regular people idols stand out more. But at the same time they are wearing a 'mask'. So rather than beauty I started to appreciate female idols more on uniqueness or if their faces give off a good vibe.
