12 Unique Beauty Experiences in Korea to Add to Your Itinerary

Thinking about visiting Korea? Besides their amazing food and sights, Korea has so much more to offer, especially if you love all things beauty.

If you believe that K-beauty is only about buying skincare items, you might want to reconsider because Korea offers a wide range of beauty experiences beyond just shopping.

Seize this chance to explore new and distinctive beauty adventures that we’re sure you won’t regret. To help you make the most of your trip to Korea, we’ve penned down a list of unique beauty experiences you’d want to try!

Colour Analysis

@mikiraiofficial

I flew to KOREA to do a #coloranalysis to get my personalcolor. The results were SHOCKING 😱

♬ original sound – Miki Rai

Figure out your ideal colour palette through colour analysis to save you time and money. It helps you pick out clothes and makeup that will make you look more radiant and enhance your natural beauty.

By identifying your unique colour palette, you’ll always be dressed to impress, whether it’s for a regular day or a special event.

Colour analysis is based on the four-season colour theory, which classifies colours into warm and cool tones.

Warm tones are split into Spring and Autumn colours, while cool tones are split into Summer and Winter shades.

If you’re not quite sure which colours look best on you, check out Dustmoth Stography for a colour analysis. They have a three-hour session that gives you all the info you need for picking the perfect outfit or makeup next time around.

Dustmoth Photography

For more details, visit their website here.

Sulwhasoo Spa in Korea

The Sulwhasoo Spa in Korea provides a lavish and revitalising experience based on time-honoured Korean beauty practices. Using exclusively Sulwhasoo products infused with age-old herbal treatments, this spa offers a comprehensive approach to skincare and overall well-being.

Treatments feature Sulwhasoo’s premium skincare products, which are known for their natural ingredients like ginseng and herbal extracts.

Although their spa is available in Singapore, certain treatments are exclusively available in Korea. Therefore, if you’re a fan of Sulwhasoo skincare, don’t miss out on experiencing the exclusive treatments that Korea has to offer while you’re there.

Some of the treatments that are only available in Korea are:

• Intensive Ginseng Journey (100 min | KRW 350,000): A facial and back treatment to experience the power of ginseng. This journey delivers ginseng energy to strengthen the vitality of the skin and relax the tense neck and back muscles, immediately improving the condition of the body and making skin firmer.
• Prestige Restorative Journey (180 min | KRW 750,000): Prestige Restorative Journey is a facial and full-body treatment to experience the most exquisite service. This journey includes professional facial care to reduce signs of ageing and body treatment to bolster youthful energy, resulting in ageless beauty.

Sulwhasoo Spa, Korea:

For more details, visit their website here.

Makeup Pop-Ups in Korea

Similar to Singapore, pop-ups are a trend in Korea, offering limited-time experiences for makeup enthusiasts. These pop-ups often feature exclusive products, special discounts, and interactive events hosted by popular brands.

@creatrip

Replying to @bloom answering your questions about pop-ups in Seoul so you guys can also enjoy fun, free activities while you’re here! 🥹 #korea #seoul #traveltips #popups #popuo #seoulpopups

♬ original sound – Creatrip – Creatrip 🇰🇷 Travel Tips ✨

To find these exciting pop-ups, you can follow K-beauty influencers on social media, read beauty blogs, and check brand websites or their social media pages for announcements. Shopping areas like Myeongdong and Gangnam often host these events.

Going to a makeup pop-up is definitely a great way to try new products, enjoy unique experiences, and get exclusive deals.

Also, there are Instagram accounts dedicated to pop-ups in Korea that you can follow to keep track of upcoming events during your visit. Here are two accounts you can follow:

1. @popupstorego
2. @popupmate

Get Aegyo-sal Tattoo During Your Trip

@minseonk1m

Another aegyosal procedure after a month later from the first is recommended to help it last longer! ✨💓 #kbeauty #aegyosalmakeup #wonyoung #koreanskincare #koreanclinics #kpop #makeup #skincare #skintok #그린스크린

♬ Off The Record (Sped Up) – IVE

Ever wondered how Korean stars achieve those adorable, eye-brightening “aegyo-sal” (puffy under-eyes) looks? It’s from getting an Aegyo-sal tattoo.

This trendy under-eye enhancement can now be achieved with tattoos. It adds a youthful, charming look to your eyes, mimicking the natural puffiness found under the eyes. While in Korea, consider getting an Aegyo-sal tattoo from skilled artists known for their precision and expertise.

One place to visit is @ondo_permanent_makeup. In addition to Aegyo-sal tattoos, they offer a variety of beauty treatments, including nose contouring, lip line augmentation, semi-permanent brown eyeliner, and more.

However, you’ll want to be alert when it comes to prices.

Recently, a Daily Vanity team member enquired with a clinic regarding the service on Instagram before visiting.

In their DM, they mentioned that the price for such service would be 300,000 ₩, but upon arriving at the location, the beautician quoted 500,000 ₩, which puzzled her. She then showed her previous conversations and the mentioned price, and they eventually agreed to the original 300,000 ₩.

Though it may not be a potential scam, it’s best to be alert as prices can be spiked, especially if you’re a tourist. So, stay cautious and confirm prices in advance to avoid surprises.

Ondo Plastic Surgery:

For more details, visit their website here.

Customise Your Perfect Foundation Shade

@theroycelee

I go to Korea to make my own custom foundation! 🇰🇷 This is an interesting experience because I’m always clueless on which colour shade suits me best. There’s 125 shades to choose from and the personal makeup artist will guide you during the session too. Reserve in advance because the slots always run out fast! #Korea #Seoul #Makeup #Foundation #CustomMakeup

♬ original sound – Royce Lee – Royce Lee

In Korea, customising your own foundation is a popular and innovative trend.

If you have been struggling to find a shade that perfectly matches your skin tone, you can can create your own custom foundation during your trip.

Many beauty stores in Korea offer this service, using advanced technology to blend the ideal shade for your unique complexion. This personalised experience guarantees a seamless match, enhancing your natural beauty and boosting your confidence with a flawless foundation.

Amore Seongsu:

Customise Lip Shades For Kiss-Proof Perfection

@aylennpark

Things to do in Korea: making a custom lipstick that perfectly matches your skin tone💄I swear Korea is living in year 3000 bc they’re always coming out with new technology to make such innovative experiences like this one! they also have things like making your own custom foundation and custom serum!! #korea #thingstodoinkorea #custommakeup #lipstick #shadematching #skinanalysis #customlipstick #koreamustdo #kbeauty #tonework #fyp

♬ original sound – Aylen Park

Take your lip game to the next level with custom lip tints or lip shades. Similar to foundations, you can also customise lip shades in Korea. You can choose between a matte or glossy finish and even select the scent of your lip products.

Through the use of technology, you now can find your ideal shade and formula for a long-lasting pop of colour that flatters your unique complexion.

Read more on where to go to customise your lip shades here.

Amore Seongsu:

AI Skin Analysis

It’s common for many of us to struggle with finding the perfect skincare products that address our skin concerns. However, before getting any skincare products, it’s crucial to understand what your skin needs. And one way to do so is by getting a skin analysis done.

 

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While you’re in Korea, you can consider visiting @individuelgeneve_kr_official for an AI skin analysis.

AI skin analysis works by utilising advanced technology to assess various aspects of your skin condition, including texture, tone, ageing factors as well as hydration levels.

And according to the results received, you can then purchase some of your favourite skincare products right there in Korea, knowing exactly what your skin needs.

Individuel Geneve:

For more details, visit their website here.

Beauty Shopping Spree In Korea

Korea is a beauty lover’s paradise, and Olive Young is its holy grail. This iconic retailer boasts an endless array of skincare and makeup treasures, many of which are yet to hit Singapore shelves.

@_w.bella

How much do you think I spend there ? #skincare #skincareroutine #seoul #myeongdong #pourtoi #fypシ゚viral #asmr #asmrskincare #travel #voyage #asmrshopping #skincareasmr #coree #coreedusud #korea #baviphat #kbeauty #beauty #beaute #seoul

♬ son original – Wiwi 💜

Apart from Olive Young, there are other places you can go to get beauty products at reasonable prices. Here’s a few stores you can visit for reasonable beauty products:

1. Baviphat in Myeongdong
2. Tem Tem
3. All Mask Story
4. Daiso
5. Costco Korea

Read on: 12 Amazing Finds at Costco Korea You Won’t Want to Miss on Your Next Trip!

Explore endless aisles of skincare, makeup, and hair care products, and discover your new holy grail beauty finds.

Custom Korean Massage

Getting a massage shouldn’t just be reserved for stressful times. Even when you’re traveling to other destinations, consider treating yourself to a massage. This is because massages and techniques can vary significantly from one place to another, offering unique experiences.

@.aylennpark

Korean massages are elite, from technique to ambiance💗 I went to Spa Gogyeol in Gangnam, Seoul! #massage #spa #koreanspa #koreanmassage #korea

♬ original sound – Aylenpark – Aylenpark

 

For a unique beauty experience, it’s best to indulge in massages from the country of origin. Korea is renowned for its customised massages, tailored to address individual needs. These massages often incorporate exclusive Korean beauty products not easily accessible elsewhere.

Spa Gogyeol:

For more details, visit their website here.

An Authentic Hair Colour Experience

@melon_park

a top tier foreinger friendly salon in korea🤎 #korea #hair #seoul #koreanhairsalon #soonsikihair #hairmakeover #fyp

♬ Perfect Night – Sped Up ver. – LE SSERAFIM

There’s nothing quite like the confidence boost of a great hair day. And if you’re a fan of K-inspired hairstyles, whether it’s a new colour or haircut, make sure to stop by a hair salon for an authentic K-beauty experience.

@anniedayoon

Another service that I got in Seoul that I HIGHLY recommend!! @차홍룸 양재점 정민 goes through 4 steps during the Image and Hair Consulting! It truly changed how I cut and colour my hair and I’m so glad she found the perfect style for me!! 📍Chahong room Yangjae Branch** This service is only available if you book a perm or color! Not included for haircuts!! Ask for Jeongmin ✨✨ #seoulkorea #koreavlog #personalcolor #koreahairsalon #hairstylist #imageconsulting #seoul

♬ Little Things – H2KStudio

Most salons in Korea frequently provide colour analysis consultations to suggest hair colours that enhance your skin tone and features.

Achieve the ideal Korean hair colour with professional guidance, guaranteeing that your new look enhances your innate beauty.

Soonsiki:

For more details, visit their website here.

Professional K-Pop Inspired Makeovers

@oshiieats

First time getting my makeup done professionally 🫢 [collab] @에코쟈뎅 공덕역.애오개역 📍Ecojardin, Gongdeok Station #korea #southkorea #koreanbeauty #travel #southkoreatravel #seoultravel #seoul #thingstodoinseoul #thingstodoinkorea #koreanmakeup #makeup #makeuptransformation #ecojardin #colouranalysis #beautysalon #koreanbeauty

♬ 蜜桃物语 – 仁辰 & 于行

Elevate your style with a personalised hair and image consultation provided by Korean stylists. They will analyse your features and recommend hairstyles and makeup looks that enhance your unique features and skin tone.

@missdarcei

Getting my makeup done in Korea for the first time 👀 part 1 #makeup #beauty #beautytok #makeuptips #korea #kbeauty

♬ Aesthetic Music (Remastered 2022) – Bepo

However, it’s important to be aware that many Korean makeup artists may have a limited selection of foundations and concealer shades, particularly medium to dark shades.

If you’re still keen on getting a K-pop-inspired makeover, we suggest bringing your own foundation, concealer, or any other beauty products that match your skin tone.

You can also check their makeup shade range on their website or social media channels as this will help ensure that their makeup looks will complement your skin tone effectively.

With these unique beauty experiences, Korea offers an opportunity to tailor your beauty routine and achieve the coveted K-Beauty glow. So, make sure to plan your itinerary well!

Eco Jardin Gongdeok Station Branch:

For more details, visit their website here.

Visit Factory Clinics For Aesthetic Treatments

Known for their rapid turnaround and wide range of treatments, Korean factory clinics have become a popular choice for both locals and tourists. These medical facilities offer everything from basic procedures to complex surgeries in a streamlined, efficient setting.

With affordable prices and convenient scheduling, they’ve earned a reputation as one-stop beauty destinations.

 

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Before you decide to visit a factory clinic, we recommend doing more research. This is because you might not always see the same aesthetician for your follow-up appointments or to address your specific concerns.

This lack of consistency could be risky, as different aestheticians might recommend different procedures, potentially straying from your original treatment plan.

It’s important to ensure that your care remains consistent and aligns with your preferences, which may not always be guaranteed in factory clinics.

Xenia Clinic:

For more details, visit their website here.