What Are Korean Beauty Standards & Do You Measure Up?

Korean Beauty Standards for Women & Men

Pale, flawless skin (for men & women) Koreans prioritize clear, smooth and hydrated skin that has a “glass-like” radiance. They take their skincare routines very seriously, often involving 10 steps or more, from double cleansing to applying serums, ampoules and sheet masks. Pale skin is also desired for historical and cultural reasons. In the past, people with lighter skin were considered wealthier and of higher social status because they didn’t have to work outside in the sun. Examples of Korean celebs with flawless skin: Song Hye-kyo, IU (Lee Ji-eun), Bae Suzy Many Koreans get regular facials because they’re so accessible and affordable. In America, it’s difficult to find a facial that’s under $100, while prices are usually between $30-70 in Korea. To achieve pale skin, some Koreans receive glutathione injections (also known as the Cinderella injection). Glutathione inhibits melanin production, leading to a lighter and more even complexion. With that being said, the FDA does not recommend this procedure because it may pose health risks.

Double eyelids (for men & women) In Korea, double eyelids (eyelids with visible creases where your eye meets your eye socket) are considered beautiful because they’re associated with a more “awake” and expressive appearance. Double eyelid surgery (also known as blepharoplasty) is one of the most common surgical procedures in the country, especially among young adults, who often undergo it as they start college or enter the workforce. Examples of Korean celebs with double eyelids: Jun Ji-hyun, Kim Jisoo, Im Yoon-ah To achieve bigger and brighter eyes, Koreans also define their aegyo-sal (애교살), the puffy area of fat under the lower lashline, with makeup or dermal fillers. Since most companies require job applicants to submit a photo as part of the hiring process, many Koreans feel pressured to get double eyelid surgery (and other procedures) to improve their career prospects.

High nose bridge (for men & women) A high nose bridge means the bone structure between the eyes is more elevated and pronounced, making the nose appear more sharp and angular. A low nose bridge, on the other hand, means the bridge of the nose is flatter and sits closer to the cheeks and eyes. For Korean men and women, a high nose bridge is considered beautiful because it’s believed to enhance facial harmony and create a more elegant appearance. Examples of Korean celebs with high nose bridges: Min Hyo-rin, Kim Tae-Hee, Han Ga-in It’s common to achieve a high nose bridge through rhinoplasty, where a surgeon can use implants or cartilage grafts to raise the nasal bridge. Alternatively, dermal filler is a less invasive option to add volume to the bridge area, though it is temporary.

V-shape face (for men & women) The ideal Korean face shape is a slender and oval one, with a defined jawline and V-shaped chin. This face shape gives you a cute and delicate look, which is associated with youthfulness and beauty. Many Koreans achieve this V-shape through facial massages, thread lifts, Botox, or facial contouring surgery (also known as mandibuloplasty). Examples of Korean celebs with V-shape faces: Hyomin, Kim Jennie, Seo Yea-ji, Moon Byul Other non-invasive methods, like face contouring injections, chin enhancement fillers, and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) face lifting, can be used to achieve the V-shape.

Slim body shape (for men & women) Koreans prefer slim and toned bodies, with many participating in diets to meet “ideal” weight standards. The “ideal weight” can be calculated by taking your height in centimeters and then subtracting 120.With that being said, this isn’t a healthy or accurate way to determine healthy weight, and can lead to body image issues. Examples of Korean celebs with slim bodies: Kim Seol-hyun, Hyun Bin, Park Seo-joon, Shin Yu-na Korean men also prefer a more androgynous and “boyish” look, instead of a “ripped” or muscular appearance. It’s possible to achieve the ideal body shape through liposuction, fat burning injections, and diet pills. However, all of these methods can lead to serious health problems.

90-degree shoulder (for men & women) Also known as the straight shoulder line, the 90-degree shoulder refers to shoulders that form a right angle with the neck. This feature is frequently highlighted in fashion and beauty advertisements because it creates an elegant appearance. Examples of Korean celebs with 90-degree shoulders: Son Na-eun, Park Soo-young, Kang Daniel While there are exercises that claim to give you 90-degree shoulders, it comes down to your genetics and bone structure.

Plump lips (for women) In the past, thin lips were the beauty standard in Korea, but full lips are considered the most beautiful, according to current standards. A small mouth, a defined Cupid’s bow, and pouty lower lip are highly admired, and the corners of the lip should be slightly upturned (so it looks like you’re always smiling). It’s possible to achieve the ideal lip look through fillers, surgery, or makeup techniques. Examples of Korean celebs with plump lips: Jang Won-young, Lee Hye-in, Han Ye-seul The smile lift surgery (also known as the corner lip lift surgery) is a popular procedure that reshapes the lip corners and lifts the mouth corners.

Straight eyebrows (for women) Having straight eyebrows is a desirable feature because it creates a youthful and innocent look. To achieve the look, pluck or shave any brow hairs that create an arch, then use a brow pencil or powder to fill in gaps along a straight line. Examples of Korean celebs with straight eyebrows: Son Ye-jin, Shin Min-a, Park Shin-hye

Tall height (for men) Similar to the West, taller men are perceived as more attractive in Korea, with most Koreans preferring men that are above the average height. According to a 2019 survey, the ideal height for Korean men is between 178 cm (5 ft, 10 in) and 185 cm (6 feet, 1 in). Examples of tall Korean celebs: Moon Sang-min, Lee Jae-wook, Jang Ki-yong

History of Korean Beauty Standards

Many Korean beauty standards come from Confucian philosophy. During the Joseon dynasty, Confucianism emphasized modesty, humility, and respect for tradition, so beauty was often associated with qualities like virtue and purity. White, flawless skin, rosy lips and cheeks, and charcoal-black hair were highly valued because they symbolized natural beauty and elegance. During the Japanese colonization, Western and Japanese beauty standards began to influence Korea. Imported beauty products and bolder hair and makeup looks became more prominent. After the Korean War, U.S. military surgeons were sent to South Korea to perform reconstructive surgeries. This popularized plastic surgery, especially blepharoplasty, as surgeons focused on procedures to make Koreans look more Westernized. Today, the K-pop and K-drama industries have the biggest influence on Korean beauty standards. Idols and actresses have popularized having double eyelids, a pointed nose, flawless skin, V-shape faces, plump lips and slim bodies.

American vs Korean Beauty Standards

Korean beauty standards emphasize a more youthful and innocent look. While there is debate on whether Western beauty standards have influenced Korean beauty standards, Koreans prefer a more delicate and natural appearance, with heavy emphasis on preventative and anti-aging skincare. Americans, on the other hand, celebrate a variety of makeup looks and styles, which reflect the country’s multicultural background. Here are some other common differences between American and Korean beauty standards: Body shape: Koreans prefer slim figures, while Americans embrace curvier, hourglass figures. Skin: Koreans prefer pale skin that is “glass-like,” while Americans embrace a wide range of skin tones. Facial features: Koreans prefer soft and delicate features, while Americans tend to admire strong and sharp features.

Are Korean beauty standards toxic?

Koreans have high beauty standards, which can be unrealistic and unhealthy. While it depends on the individual person, Korean beauty standards can be toxic because there’s an immense pressure to look “perfect.” Lookism in Korea is a major issue, especially since your physical appearance can determine your career, success, and marriage prospects. Since cosmetic procedures are so normalized in the country, people who choose not to get surgery (or those who cannot afford it) may feel inadequate or at a disadvantage in society.

K-Pop Idols Breaking Korean Beauty Standards

Idols like Hwasa and Amber Liu have challenged traditional beauty standards. K-pop idols are considered the blueprint for Korean beauty standards, but some have challenged and redefined these norms, showing that beauty comes in many forms. Here are some K-pop idols that aren’t considered conventionally attractive, according to K-beauty standards, but are still absolutely beautiful: RM from BTS Minzy from 2NE1 Jihyo from TWICE Hyolyn from Sistar Amber Liu from f(x) Taemin from SHINEE Hwasa from MAMAMOO Hyoyeon from Girl’s Generation