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Seoul has solidified its reputation as a global beauty hub, drawing tourists eager to explore the secrets of K-beauty. Beyond the allure of beauty products, visitors are heading to Korea’s top make-up studios to experience personalized transformations, learn skincare tips, and immerse themselves in the latest beauty trends.
Nestled in trendy neighborhoods, Seoul's make-up studios are renowned for catering to both local celebrities and global tourists. These studios provide more than just a makeover; they offer a cultural experience that lets clients connect with the nuanced techniques of Korean beauty.
One standout is Neu Haus, a popular studio in Seoul's Yongsan district. Led by acclaimed artist Kim Han-sol, it has become a must-visit destination for beauty enthusiasts. According to Kim, visiting a Korean make-up studio has become a “travel ritual” for many foreign tourists.
“It’s like a new word-of-mouth trend,” Kim explains. “Tourists often book hair-and-make-up packages, followed by photo sessions to capture their transformed look. This has become a unique type of souvenir for them.”
Most international clients discover Neu Haus through Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform similar to Instagram. Kim notes that foreign visitors are particularly drawn to the individualized approach of K-beauty, which prioritizes harmonizing features over adhering to conventional beauty standards.
“The focus is on clean, fresh looks that enhance one’s best features while downplaying imperfections,” Kim says. “This makes the experience feel highly personal and distinct from older, dramatic make-up trends.”
Seoul's make-up studios are also catering to international clients through personalized lessons. These sessions teach visitors how to recreate K-beauty techniques that best suit their features.
“One memorable session was when a man booked a lesson for his 70-year-old mother,” Kim recalls. “He was inspired by a colleague’s transformation after attending one of our sessions. It was a heartwarming reminder of how beauty transcends age and nationality.”
Kim believes that the universal desire to feel beautiful drives the growing interest in K-beauty. Her philosophy centers on enhancing natural beauty rather than creating dramatic transformations.
“Our studio primarily caters to everyday clients rather than those in the entertainment industry,” Kim explains. “We aim to create effortless, subtle looks that feel authentic to each individual.”
Current trends in K-beauty emphasize dewy, glowing skin over heavy styling. Kim often shares tips for achieving these looks, such as using a lip base to soften the outline of lips or layering lighter shades for a fresh, natural vibe.
The surge in international interest underscores K-beauty’s global reach. Tourists from across the world are flocking to Seoul not just for beauty products but for a deeper, more interactive experience.
For those seeking to embrace their individuality and refine their beauty techniques, Seoul’s make-up studios provide the perfect destination. As Kim notes, “Everyone has a desire to feel beautiful—it’s a universal thing. This is why I love my job.”
Whether it’s learning the latest skincare tips, enjoying a professional makeover, or capturing the results in a photo session, visiting a K-beauty studio is becoming an integral part of the modern Seoul travel experience.
Source: The Korea Times
