7 Korean Hair Trends in 2024 That Will Be Seen Everywhere

K-idols’ makeup, fashion, and hairstyles have gained global attention and are inspiring us to enhance our own looks. In 2024, the Hime Cut, popularised by Korean star Bae Suzy, is expected to be a trendy hairstyle.

We spoke with industry experts like Lee Jung Min from Jung Beauty, Eugene and his team at Chez Vous, and Lynn Chew from Bada Hair Salon to get insights into the Korean hair trends in 2024!

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Hime Cut

“Just as we expected the Hime Cut hair trend to fade away by the end of 2023, it has surprisingly made a comeback and is set to be a dominant style in 2024,” according to the hair stylists at Chez Vous.

“After (Bae) Suzy showed her Hime haircut in the K-drama Doona!, this style has gained immense popularity,” said Jung Min.

 

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If you’re not familiar with it, the Hime Cut, also called the Princess Cut, is known for its straight, blunt side-locks or a frontal fringe that sharply separates from the rest of the hair. It usually reaches the length of the cheek or even the chin.

“Looking ahead, the trend is evolving towards a more wearable thinner and slightly less blunt frontal fringe, departing from the chunkier chops reminiscent of the Jellyfish haircut, making the Hime Cut more wearable in 2024,” commented Chez Vous’ hair directors insightfully.

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Straight and Sleek Liquid hair

The hair directors at Chez Vous mentioned that in the world of K-beauty, K-hair has always been associated with beautiful curls and fun waves. However, there has been a surprising shift in trends in 2024, with straight hair making a strong comeback. This trend has been popularised by the sensational girl group New Jeans.

“What sets this revival apart is not just any ordinary straightness but the emergence of liquid hair—a trend defined by a silky-smooth texture, unparalleled softness, and a glass-like finish, all without the wet look,” they added. “And you can achieve this look easily with Chez Vous‘s groundbreaking Liquid Hair Treatment!”

“Given the trend of ‘back to black’ hair, a silky-smooth texture has once again become a key focus area. I recommend using Jung Beauty’s best-selling Hair Care Power Duo daily to maintain your hair’s shine!” Jung Min suggested. “These two products have earned an endorsement from Korean supermodel, Hye Park, who loves using them to manage her damaged hair!”

Jung Beauty Hair Care Power Duo is priced at S$89 (~RM311.39).

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Reverse Ombre

“Numerous K-pop boy group members, including Dino from Seventeen, Giuk from ONEWE, and Young-Hoon from The Boyz, are embracing the striking Reverse Ombre hair trend,” Chez Vous’s hair directors noted.

Reverse ombre is different from the classic ombre because it starts with a lighter shade at the roots and gradually gets darker towards the tips. This unique style creates a visually striking and unconventional look that adds depth and dimension to your hair.

 

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“At Chez Vous: HideAway, we’re already seeing this trend gain popularity as more and more of our female customers express their interest in and request the distinctive Reverse Ombre style.”

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Hush Cut

“When looking at the current trends among female Korean celebrities sporting short or shoulder-length hair, the Hush Cut has been seen on notable figures like Wendy from Red Velvet, as well as Na-Yeon and MoMo from Twice,” Chez Vous’ hair directors said.

The Hush Cut is like a layered lob or bob cut. It usually has light bangs, curtain fringe, or layers that frame the face. This haircut adds volume to the top while giving texture to the middle and ends, making your hair look lively.

“We anticipate the Hush Cut to stay on trend in 2024 because of its highly wearable and subtle nature. In contrast to its bolder counterpart, the Wolf Cut, the Hush Cut exudes controlled rebellion without going into excessive wildness, making it accessible to a wider audience,” they added.

“It’s also a refreshing departure from the standard bob or lob styles that have dominated the hair scene for the past decade!”

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Ribbons and Bows

Throughout 2023, bows and ribbons have become incredibly popular. They have effortlessly transitioned from being used as hair accessories to being incorporated into fashion and even makeup.

According to Jung Min, “mostly K-pop idols like New Jeans and Jennie started this trend in Korea. Previously, it was considered too cute, but now I often see these featured in everyday styling tips on Instagram. So, I believe this trend will continue to be popular for at least another year or two,” she noted.

So, ladies, no need to part with your bows and ribbon accessories just yet, as they’ll still be stylish and on-trend in 2024!

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Curtain Hair for Men

“Curtain Hair has been a recurring trend, and its popularity is expected to keep growing in 2024, thanks to the influence of K-pop idols,” emphasised Lynn from Bada Hair Salon.

“It’s specifically designed for those with long, gently wavy hair, and achieving this look is a breeze with a hybrid gel-wax product like MILBON Molding Wax. This exceptional product not only provides a gentle hold but also ensures that your curtain hair looks effortlessly natural!”

Curtain hair is known for its center part, which forms a curtain-like appearance and frames the face on both sides. The top part of the hair is usually longer and has a soft wave or natural flow, resembling parted curtains. The sides are maintained at a medium length, giving a laid-back and relaxed look.

Lynn also suggests complementing your curtain hair with a down perm to achieve that coveted dandy K-pop idol look!

Korean Hair Trends 2024: Layers

Layered hairstyles are not only popular in traditional styling trends, but they are also making a comeback in Korean Perms. The hair directors at Chez Vous have noticed that this change is influenced by the Y2K fashion trend, which draws inspiration from the vibrant hairstyles of the 2000s, particularly those seen in Japanese fashion.

 

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“Contrasting with the neatly styled, pageant-worthy curls of the past, Korean idols are now embracing a more modern preference for thinner, more layered ends in their hair!”

Featured image credits: @skuukzky/Instagram, @for_everyoung10/Instagram, @official_onewe/Instagram