It’s amazing what magic a Korean perm can do for men. Whether you’re after loose, natural waves or a sharp, voluminous curl, it can change your whole vibe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular Korean perm styles for men, salons to visit in Singapore, how much they cost, and what you’ll need to know about aftercare to keep your curls looking fresh.
- What Is a Korean Perm for Men?
- You’re Suited for a Korean Perm Men Hairstyle If...
- Short Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
- Medium Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
- Long Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
- The Best Salons To Get a Korean Perm For Men
- Aftercare Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Korean Perms For Men
What Is a Korean Perm for Men?
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
Unlike traditional perms that create tight ahjumma curls, a Korean perm is designed to give men natural-looking waves or soft curls.
The process is similar to any perm: your hair is prepped with a wash, treated with a perm solution to reshape the bonds, and then neutralised. Depending on the look you want, your stylist may use large rods or a digital perm machine.
The result? Effortless, K-drama-worthy curls without the poodle effect.
You’re Suited for a Korean Perm Men Hairstyle If…
- Your hair isn’t too short: At least 8 to 10cm is ideal so your stylist has enough length to work with.
- Your hair is straight and soft: Perms add texture and volume, making styling faster and easier.
- Your hair isn’t thinning: Perms won’t disguise hair loss. They can actually make thinning more noticeable.
- You’re okay with maintenance: No washing for 48 hours after your perm, air-dry to avoid frizz and damage, and avoid combing while wet
- You don’t mind daily styling: A perm saves time but still needs upkeep. To keep curls fresh, use perm-friendly shampoo and conditioner, apply curl cream and air-dry, scrunch curls into place with fingertips, then add pomade or mousse for extra definition.
If this sounds manageable, you’re ready to explore the top 16 Korean perm hairstyles for men!
Short Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
As Perm
Credits: @b_._i.__._._oneswj/Instagram
The as perm distinctively covers the forehead with curls up to the front, creating a stylish look with a small forehead window. This Korean perm men hairstyle is an ideal choice if you feel self-conscious about your forehead!
Shadow Perm
Credits: @mandesalon_hy/Instagram
The shadow perm features layers of curls resembling shadows, adding overall volume to your hair. This Korean perm men’s hairstyle is perfect if you want a warmer, softer look.
Bowl Cut Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
This Korean perm men hairstyle draws attention to your face with low maintenance. It allows you to show off your waves effortlessly, making it perfect for a busy lifestyle without the need for frequent salon touch-ups or extensive styling tools.
Short Hair Perm
Credits: @lookbook_zz22224/Instagram
The Korean perm men’s hairstyle is easy to manage, and when paired with a fade or undercut, it creates the illusion of fuller, thicker locks.
Side Parting Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
Popularised by K-actor Gong Yoo in the Netflix drama Goblin: The Lonely and Great God, the side-parting perm adds volume to bangs and reveals about half of the forehead. This Korean perm men’s hairstyle is an excellent choice for creating balance and concealing facial asymmetry.
Soft Wavy Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
The soft wavy perm is a classic Korean perm men’s hairstyle, featuring soft, large curls that give the appearance of natural wavy hair. It exudes a timeless charm, making it the quintessential boyfriend hairstyle!
See-Through Dandy Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
The see-through perm offers a neat and tidy look, making it the perfect choice for office men or those seeking to cover their foreheads or M-shaped hairlines.
Down Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
A down perm keeps the hair closer to the head, resulting in a less poofy and voluminous finish. It’s an excellent choice if you want to experiment with your hair texture but still want a subtle and natural look.
Medium Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
Wolf Shadow Perm
Credits: @mans_urban/Instagram
The wolf shadow perm cut combines the choppy texture of a mullet with the softness of a shag cut, creating a stylish blend.
Paired with the trendy shadow perm, this Korean perm men hairstyle is definitely one of the most fashionable and modern look.
Classy Perm
Credit: Soompi
Often sported by K-drama actor Lee Min Ho, this Korean perm men’s hairstyle, known as the classy perm, adds sophistication to your appearance. The added fringe helps to draw attention to your face and accentuate your features.
Permed Mullet
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
This Korean perm men’s hairstyle features short sides with length at the back, making a bold and edgy statement. The permed texture adds softness to the look.
Tousled Messy Perm
Credits: @la.b_hjh/Instagram
The messy Korean perm men’s hairstyle is popular because of its effortlessly sexy finish, which creates a messy bedhead. It offers a more youthful appearance and beautifully softens your facial features with its natural texture.
Long Korean Perm Hairstyles For Men
Middle Parting Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
On the other hand, opting for a middle part is ideal if you aim to complement the symmetry of your features. This Korean perm men hairstyle will help to frame your face nicely.
Long Loose Perm
Credits: @byus.min/Instagram
Opting for longer strands opens up numerous styling possibilities and allows you to showcase the perm textures. This Korean perm men hairstyle exudes a relaxed and carefree artsy vibe with its long loose waves.
Shaggy Perm
Credits: @ken_menshair/Instagram
The shaggy perm creates a naturally tousled and layered appearance, adding volume and movement to your hair. This Korean perm men hairstyle is ideal if you prefer a more effortless, laid-back look.
The Best Salons To Get a Korean Perm For Men
Bada Hair 4.8/5 stars on Google!
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Once known as LeeKaJa, Bada Hair brings K-pop-approved salon services to Singapore. “Bada,” meaning sea in Korean, reflects their boundless creativity.
With stylists trained worldwide, you can expect impressive results — and free retouching within eight days if you’re not satisfied with your cut, colour, perm, or rebonding.
Reviews
I’ve been seeing Han at Bada Hair for quite some time now, and honestly, he’s amazing! I’ve done so many treatments with him – haircut, down perm, colouring, hair spa, curl perm, iron perm, and he always gets it right.” – Andrew Hsueh, Google Reviews
Had a great Korean perm and hair cut today. Haven’t had a Korean perm in 10; years. First time trying the services here. The results was better than I expected. I would come back here again.” – Marcus Ong, Google Reviews
What We Like:
1. Extra touches: phone chargers, WiFi, umbrellas on rainy days
2. Complimentary barista counter with drinks and Korean desserts
3. Free retouching guarantee
What to Consider:
1. There have been occasional complaints about mismatched expectations for cuts and colour, though the salon has taken steps to address them.
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Location
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333A Orchard Road, Mandarin Gallery, #03-13, Singapore 238867
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Prices before GST
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- Digital or Setting Perm: S$240 (Short), S$270 (Medium), S$300 (Long), S$330 (Extra Long)
- Iron Perm: S$270 (Short), S$300 (Medium), S$330 (Long), S$360 (Extra Long)
- Magic Setting Perm: S$300 (Short), S$330 (Medium), S$360 (Long), S$390 (Extra Long)
- Cold Wave Perm: S$150 (Short), S$170 (Medium), S$190 (Long), S$210 (Extra Long)
- Down Perm: From S$50 for all hair lengths
- Root Perm: From S$150 for all hair lengths
Additional surcharge for perm service:
- S$15 (Senior Stylist)
- S$30 (Director)
- S$40 (Senior Director)
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Opening hours
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- 10am – 8pm (Sat to Thu)
- 10.30am – 8pm (Fri)
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Contact details
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Socials
Zinc Korean Hair Salon 4.4/5 stars on Google!
Credits: @zinckoreanhairsalon/Instagram
Zinc Korean Hair Salon is a go-to spot for authentic Korean hair services in Singapore. With experienced Korean stylists, a welcoming ambience, and consistently high standards, the salon specialises in natural, flattering perms for both men and women.
English-speaking stylists ensure smooth communication and personalised guidance, helping you choose a style that best complements your features and lifestyle.
Reviews:
Had men’s haircut and perm with Su-A, tried a different perm from usual and it turned out well! Very good, as usual.” – Alvin Lim, Google Reviews
I just gotten a male perm haircut by Ms Ah Ri this afternoon, and the result is really good! She also explain to me each details of the hairstyle and how does it suitable for me.” – Li Hong, Google Reviews
What We Love:
1. Skilled Korean stylists who specialise in perms
2. Smooth communication thanks to English-speaking staff
3. Personalised recommendations to match your features and style
What to Consider:
1. A few reviews mention less satisfying experiences with certain stylists
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Location
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9 Raffles Boulevard, Millenia Walk (Promenade MRT Exit B), #02-48/49, Singapore 039596
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Price
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- Basic Perm: S$163.50 (Short), S$196.20 (Medium), S$218 (Long), S$239.80 (Extra Long)
- Design Perm: S$218 (Short), S$239.80 (Medium), S$261.60 (Long), S$283.40 (Extra Long)
- Digital & Setting Perm: S$261.60 (Short), S$283.40 (Medium), S$305.20 (Long), S$327 (Extra Long)
- Rebonding & Curl (Perm): S$305.20 (Short), S$348.80 (Medium), S$381.50 (Long), S$414.20 (Extra Long)
- Fringe Perm: S$87.20
- Down Perm: S$32.70 (Side) and S$54.50 (All)
- Root Perm: S$109
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Opening hours
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- 11am – 8pm (Mon to Fri)
- 10am – 6pm (Sat, Sun, and PH)
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Contact details
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Socials
Hair Plus Korean Salon 4.6/5 stars on Google!
Credit: Hair Plus Korean Salon/Facebook
With top stylists trained in Seoul, Hair Plus Korean Salon delivers authentic K-style makeovers at affordable prices.
While they offer a full range of services, perms are their speciality – particularly the popular down perm, perfect for taming stray spikes or achieving a sleek, idol-inspired look. Regular promotions make it easy to refresh your style without overspending.
Reviews:
The best, and one and only hairdresser in Singapore I entrust my style to. I regularly get down perm+cut, which is rare service for local places because they usually don’t have the sufficient skills and experiences like they do in Hairplus.” – Byunghun Yoo, Google Reviews
As a Korean-Korean, I can tell you its like being in Cheongdam. I’ve got a perm and cut from Eric he was so nice with a great understanding of men’s hair style. Highly recommend this shop!” – 김종원, Google Reviews
What We Love:
1. Specialises in men’s down perms
2. Stylists trained in Seoul for authentic results
3. Frequent monthly promotions for extra savings
What to Consider:
1. Some past complaints about haircut results and upselling practices
Service Details
haarAttic Salon 4.9/5 stars on Google!
Credit: @haarattic/Instagram (left), Google Reviews (right)
At haarAttic, every service begins with a detailed consultation so your stylist can tailor the cut or perm exactly to your needs. Their team blends technical skill with creativity to craft styles that are both flattering and easy to maintain.
With perms starting from just S$95, it’s no surprise they’ve earned an impressive 4.9-star rating from nearly 900 reviews.
Reviews:
Got my regular messy wolfcut-ish perm at haarAttic done by Dex, this has been my 4th time here and it’s really worth the price as the quality is superb.” – Zacharel Chai, Google Reviews
Kelvin is fantastic! He cuts my hair with care rather than rushing through it. He just did a Korean perm and the outcome is great.” – Teoh HC, Google Reviews
What We Love:
1. Affordable perms starting at S$95
2. Attentive consultations that ensure you get your desired look
3. Consistently praised stylists who balance creativity and practicality
What to Consider:
1. There were past complaints about customer service years ago, but the salon has since addressed these issues
Service Details
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Location
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- 67 Boat Quay, #02-01, Singapore 049855
- 7A Neil Road, Singapore 088807
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Price
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- L’Oreal Dulcia Cold Perm: S$95 – S$168
- L’Oreal Digital Perm: S$198 – $238
- Tokio Sinka Treatment Digital Perm: S$298 – S$358
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Opening hours
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- 11 am – 8pm (Mon to Fri)
- 10am – 8pm (Sat and Sun)
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Contact details
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Socials
Choi Gaeul Hairdresser Singapore 4.6/5 stars on Google!
Credits: @choigaeul_singapore/Instagram
A hidden gem among Korean salons in Singapore, Choi Gaeul Hairdresser is praised for its professional stylists and warm hospitality. From treatments to colouring, they deliver K-celebrity-worthy results at approachable prices
Students, in particular, will love their regular promotions, with men’s perms (including cut + side perm) starting from just S$128.
Reviews:
Esther is a very pro Korean hair dresser. She knew what style I was looking for with just a glance at the picture I provided. Tried cut+down perm. It was really quick and gave just the style I wanted. Will definitely keep visiting!” – Winston Yan, Google Reviews
The overall experience was good and service was on point. They provide a staff to translate if you are unable to speak Korean. Most of the stylists can speak basic English too. Definitely will go back for hair perm and cut.” – Weiwen Wu, Google Reviews
What We Love:
1. Affordable men’s perm promotions from S$128 (including cut and side perm)
2. Stylists who understand your style
3. Translator support available for non-Korean speakers
What to Consider:
1. There were complaints about customer service more than a year ago, though the salon clarified this was due to being understaffed at the time.
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Location
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321 Alexandra Road, Alexandra Central, #03-23, Singapore 159971
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Price
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From S$128
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Opening hours
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- 9.30am – 7pm (Mon to Fri)
- 10.30am – 6pm (Sat & Sun)
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Contact details
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Socials
Aftercare Tips
A perm is only as good as the care you give it. To keep your curls looking fresh and defined:
- Avoid washing your hair for 48 hours after the treatment.
- Use a sulphate-free shampoo and hydrating conditioner to prevent dryness.
- Apply curl creams or leave-in products designed for wavy/curly hair.
- Air-dry whenever possible; avoid excessive blow-drying or straightening.
- Go for touch-ups every four to six months, depending on your hair growth and curl type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Korean Perms For Men
1. How long does a Korean perm last for men?
Usually four to six months, depending on your hair type and aftercare.
2. Can I perm dyed or bleached hair?
Yes, but consult your stylist first — they may recommend treatments to prevent further damage.
3. Do Korean perms damage hair?
All chemical processes carry some risk, but modern perm solutions and in-salon treatments minimise this.
4. Is a Korean perm high maintenance?
Not necessarily! With the right products, it can actually make daily styling easier.
