Stepping into Seoul is akin to stepping into some sort of paradise; the beauty junkies would know. After all, you’re in the homeland of K-beauty, where endless streets are lined with Korean cult beauty brands that await your attendance. Towards the tail end of 2023, Business of Fashion reported that the #KBeauty hashtag garnered 9.6 billion views alone, with a multitude of Korean cult brands emerging on the frontier. A bulk of this would notably be its slew of skincare warriors, with brands such as Torriden, Round Lab and Beauty of Joseon leading the charge.
Beyond the bevy of toners, sunscreens and serums that have popped up on our radar, overwhelming entries in the hair and make-up space have also been all the rage. We’re looking at high-shine glosses with staying power, colour-correcting palettes meant to tackle the lot of redness and pigmentation, and blush pots that will incite vanity envy in every maximalist out there.
Then remains the question: where do we go to sweep the best of the lot? The answer has long been crystallised for all eternity; if the West has Sephora, then South Korea has Olive Young. In essence, a one-stop shop for all your K-beauty necessities.
And for those well-accustomed to the rodeo, you’ll know that the country’s streets are peppered with outlets everywhere. So there’s no reason not to arm yourself with the knowledge you need; here, the beauty team at Vogue Singapore filters out the top K-beauty products to cop the next time you’re in town. Because best believe it, that trip to Olive Young will be well worth your time.
1 / 26
Amuse Ring Lip Balm
Nothing spices up a jewellery stack quite like a kitschy accessory. Our top pick: the Amuse Ring Lip Balm, which also doubles up as a hydrating salve for parched puckers. Available in five diverse hues, this bad boy comprises a highly-moisturising formula that melts into the skin upon contact, imbuing it with a formidable amalgamation of panthenol and peptides that helps soothe dryness and irritation. Finger-application is sufficient for anyone looking to up the hydration levels of their kisser—for those who want to let its pigment power shine through, however, I recommend dabbing it on with the equally portable Amuse Lip & Liner Brush. The hue 05 Butterfly Ring is the darkest and most discernible of the full range, encasing lips in a vivid and radiant mauve wash. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Amuse Ring Lip Balm, $14.85, available at Olive Young
2 / 26
Jungsaemmool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion Holiday Edition
It’s safe to say that cushion foundations are in no danger of dropping off our radar. One of the most standout options so far? The Jungsaemmool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion. This formidable base product manages the impossible, granting a dewy finish without veering into oily territory—and yes, this is despite hours of wear in Singapore’s sweltering climate. And while it doesn’t do much to conceal active zits as well as inflammation, it delivers on a natural luminosity that makes skin look like it is in the pink of health. What’s more, it works in perfect tandem with make-up, fusing seamlessly with blush and highlighter with little to no blending effort required. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Jungsaemmool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion Holiday Edition, $43.20, available at Olive Young
3 / 26
Medicube Night Collagen Wrapping Mask
We foresee that you’ll be spotting this new overnight mask variant on your next night flight. Enter: the Medicube Night Collagen Wrapping Mask. Unlike other viral renditions, Medicube’s latest star product comes in a tube that allows users to decide for themselves as to what constitutes the perfect amount for their visage. Based on my personal experience, a thin layer is potent enough to witness its effects. Upon application, leave it to dry and harden. Results are instantaneous the next morning thanks to an efficacious union of salmon DNA, caffeine as well as hyaluronic acid. Think a brighter, smoother complexion as well as less noticeable imperfections in the vein of puffiness and fine lines. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Medicube Night Collagen Wrapping Mask, $24.49, available at Olive Young
4 / 26
Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule
A product that accelerates skin healing as well as bolsters skin density without causing any form of irritation? It might sound too good to be true, but that’s precisely the power—and appeal—of the Rejuran Turnover Ampoule. I observed an improvement in hyperpigmentation as well as sun spots within just a month of use, while textural flaws begin to smooth out around the three month mark. Other plus points include smaller, tighter pores and reduced oil production around the T-zone area. My one gripe: it does leave a slightly sticky residue which makes going to bed right after application impossible. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule, $56.93, available at Olive Young
5 / 26
Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad
Those prone to inflammation and redness are sure to benefit from Skinfood’s carrot seed oil-containing toner pads. Designed to cool and comfort sensitised complexions, I found that its texture was its most unique selling point—unlike most mass market options, there is no abrasive quality to these toner pads. Instead, it has a thicker, bouncier surface that sits nicely on your visage, saturating the complexion with beta-carotene as well as antioxidants to strengthen the skin’s barrier. The full potential of the product comes through especially when it is paired with a rich, nutrient-dense moisturiser. Use this combination especially if you’re traveling somewhere with sub-zero temperatures, and watch it shine. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad, $19.19, available at Olive Young
6 / 26
AOU Glowy Tint Balm
There’s no two ways about it—when it comes to lip products, an exceedingly standout formula is needed to compensate should no applicator brush be provided. Luckily, the AOU Glowy Tint Balm is just that. This sheer, high-shine balm grants an intense dose of hydration alongside volume, plumping up pouts while also eradicating all manner of flakes and dry patches. For optimal colour and gloss payoff, finger application is recommended as this ensures its soft, creamy texture fully melts onto kissers. Choose from 11 diverse hues which includes brick orange, mauve, and more. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
AOU Glowy Tint Balm, $15, available at Olive Young
7 / 26
Parnell Cicamanu Serum Cushion
A skincare-infused base product? Count me in. Parnell’s combined the best of both worlds: its Cicamanu 92 Serum has found its way into its cushion compact, birthing the Parnell Cicamanu Serum Cushion. So in one compact, you’ll find all the original ingredients of its skincare gold: think manuka honey, madecassoside and centella asiatica to combat inflammation and fortify the skin barrier against damage. Post-application, it’s certainly won our hearts for its lightweight texture and natural, glowy coverage—whilst covering up any visible redness prior. There’s a mattifying option in the market too, if anyone’s wondering. — Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Parnell Cicamanu Serum Cushion, $49, available at Olive Young
8 / 26
Whipped Muhwabutter Vegan Pack Cleanser
It’s viral for a reason. The Whipped vegan cleanser series has not only been certified by the MUAs of K-pop idols but has also cemented itself as one of those cult products South Koreans simply can’t keep away from. In its name, its whipped consistency gives it a thicker finish, but it’s actually light and perfectly smooth when applied to one’s skin. To give it a good go, I’d recommend applying a layer of it—like you would a mask—before washing it off, alongside all the make-up, sebum, dirt and any blackheads that have coagulated on your skin after a day. The best part? It’s non-stripping and you’ll feel hydrated still, all due to its inclusion of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid within. — Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Whipped Muhwabutter Vegan Pack Cleanser, $43, available at Olive Young
9 / 26
Dr. G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream
No frills, and as reliable as they come. A soothing, calming and hydrating moisturiser all in one, the Dr. G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream knows its audience. Where it counts, this lightweight, gel-like formulation is definitely one to reach for if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin—if only for its unrivalled ability to reduce redness and the appearance of hyperpigmentation with continued use of over a few days. It’s got all the good stuff; niacinamide for skin barrier-strengthening; panthenol for hydration; and centella asiatica that gives it its wondrously soothing, anti-inflammatory nature. — Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Dr. G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream, $40, available at Olive Young
10 / 26
Beplain Mung Bean Milk Peeling Gel
On days when my visage feels highly-sensitised, I reach for this gentle exfoliation solution instead of my go-to AHA BHA toner. The magic stems largely from its inclusion of mung bean soy milk within its formulae, which helps hydrate and fortify a weakened skin barrier while also abolishing all kinds of impurities. It’s not a physical exfoliant, so don’t expect to see any micro-beads or seeds—rather, it relies on 4 different types of peeling polymers to do the job. I find this mild enough to be used on the daily while also being a little more potent than PHA formulas. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Beplain Mung Bean Milk Peeling Gel, $26.10, available at Olive Young
11 / 26
Unove Deep Damage Treatment
If your mane is home to dry, damaged strands, then Unove is the brand for you. Staking its claim as the number one haircare brand in South Korea, its Deep Damage Treatment will give your crown a radiance you’ve never known before. With its myriad of proteins, keratin and amino acids, this reparative deep conditioning formulation was what I counted on to restore life into my bleached, coloured tresses when I desperately needed it, just so I could leave the house in full confidence that my hair health wasn’t completely eroded away. — Azrin Tan, senior digital writer
Unove Deep Damage Treatment, $50 for a pack of two, available at Olive Young
12 / 26
d'Alba White Truffle Oil Capsule Cream
As impressive as the d’Alba White Truffle First Spray Serum is, it is this cream rendition that truly stood out for me. Its rich texture is certainly enough to up your hydration levels should you be situated in a country with a warm, balmy climate, but it is the inclusion of micro-oil capsules that really seals the deal on it being the ultimate moisturiser for anyone dealing with tempestuous temperatures. Not only was it a life-saver for me when I was peeling and flaking in negative degree weather, the addition of vitamin C and trufferol also revitalised my otherwise dry and sallow complexion. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
d’Alba White Truffle Capsule Creeam, $76, available at Olive Young
13 / 26
Dasique Souffle Colour Pot
Matte is back, baby. Ease back into powdery, pigmented formulas by giving the Dasique Souffle Colour Pot a whirl. Its buttery enough to glide onto skin easily—though there is an applicator provided, for those who prefer a more precise finish—but still dries down quickly enough and clings on for hours on end. In all honesty, its appeal lies largely in its diverse shade range. There are 15 hues in total dedicated to both warm and cool tones, with shades 1-7 serving as variations of coral hues and 8-15 stemming from the mauve family. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Dasique Souffle Colour Pot, $27, available at Olive Young
14 / 26
Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Toner
Curious to know what the hype was about, I bought Round Lab’s 1025 Dokdo Toner last year and have never looked back.
This unscented toner harnesses the skin healing powers of magnesium and over 70 other naturally-derived minerals found in pure, deep sea water from Ulleungdo in South Korea. Unlike other essences or toners which may be thick and viscous-y, this watery product is best enjoyed in layers, and instantly soothes, hydrates and refreshes the skin upon contact. Importantly for sensitive skin types like mine, it gently and effortlessly exfoliates without stripping the skin thanks to the inclusion of protease. Add it to a mist bottle to spritz it onto the skin, or use it as a treatment pack by soaking cotton pads in the product and applying to the skin for five to 10 minutes as you dry your hair post-shower. — Alli Sim, beauty and wellness director
Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Toner, $24.48, available at Olive Young
15 / 26
Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
When it comes to cleansing balms from South Korea, Banila Co’s Clean It Zero is a cult favourite loved by K-beauty enthusiasts, and I’m a willing convert. Bottled in a tub, the lightweight, sorbet-like texture of the balm transforms into an easy, luscious spread for the mien once massaged into skin. Led by its Zero Balance Technology, each of its variations—catered for all the different skin types—come stocked with an array of hydrating ingredients that work towards a make-up cleanse that doesn’t dry out the skin. And when it comes down to removing waterproof make-up, it’s guaranteed to deliver, without stinging the eyes should you be trying to rub out that bit of stubborn mascara. — Azrin Tan, digital writer
Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm, $32.90 for 100ml, available at Banila Co.
16 / 26
Heart Percent Dot On Mood Lip Pencil
I may never go back to a thin format lip liner after getting my hands on Heart Percent’s retractable liner. Its rounded, chubby design and assortment of shades make this lip crayon a joy to use. Not one for lip fillers, I find this to be a dream for enhancing the shape and volume of the lips with some subtle overlining. Harsh, unnatural lines common with other lip liners are blurred with ease thanks to its blendable, long-wearing formula that can also be used on the cheeks and lids in a pinch. — Alli Sim, beauty and wellness director
Heart Percent Dot On Mood Lip Pencil, $25.84, available at Olive Young
17 / 26
Abib Heartleaf Spot Pads
There’s good reason to why Abib dominated the Toner Pad category at Olive Young 2021, with these nifty pads that are cool to the touch and calming to the skin. One tub contains 80 pads, generously doused in heartleaf extract that holds soothing properties that even cater to sensitive skin. These can be used day and night, with the former granting a smooth, soft mien right before your make-up routine. — Janice Sim, digital editor
Abib Toner Pads, $43 for 80 pads, available at Olive Young
18 / 26
Luna Conceal Blender Palette
If there’s one widely-approved product by celebrity make-up artists in South Korea? It’s the Luna Conceal Blender Palette. An all-in-one colour-correcting palette that truly allows one to perfect your base, this has proven to be a vanity staple since my first purchase of it. Its high-coverage formulation is both creamy to the touch and glides right on—making it ideal for touching up on any blemish spots or bouts of redness that may have popped up overnight. For someone who consistently battles with redness around my T-zone and dark circles around my under eyes, I find myself reaching for the palette’s mint green pot and salmon-pink hue, just to even out my skin tone before I go in with my concealer. — Azrin Tan, digital writer
Luna Conceal Blender Palette, $43, available at Olive Young
19 / 26
Dr.forhair Phyto Therapy Shampoo
The main conundrum of having a oily scalp and dry strands is finding a formula that is able to thoroughly cleanse without stripping and dehydrating tresses. Thankfully, the Dr.forhair Phyto Therapy Shampoo strikes the perfect balance. Its low pH composition means that there is a lessened chance of causing scalp irritation, with its inclusion of ingredients comprising microbial properties (think moringa oleifera seed extract) further helping reduce instances of itching, dandruff, as well as sensitivity.
I observed significant improvements within just two weeks of use, with my mane looking visibly fuller and bouncier. I also noticed reduced hair fall, and less oiliness along the crown area at the end of the day. I’d recommend it for daily use to witness optimal effects. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Dr.forhair Phyto Therapy Shampoo, $39.30, available at Olive Young
20 / 26
Amuse Bebe Tint
As far as K-Beauty innovations in 2024 go, the Amuse Bebe Tint ranks high on my list thanks to its myriad of capabilities. Touted as a lip oil, tint, and pout-enhancing gloss, it’s safe to say that this bad boy delivers on its promises. A single swipe is enough to encase my lips in an ample dose of hydration, plus it is no slouch in the colour payoff department either—its glossy formula retains its high-shine quality when left undisturbed, and dries down to a stain only if your puckers have come in contact with grease or copious amounts of water.
And while its plumping effects are mild, it does create the impression of fuller, thicker lips that is further bolstered by the blinding sheen it leaves behind. My personal favourite hue: Grape Bebe; a gorgeous mauve shade that is also considered a top pick by Amuse brand ambassador, Jang Won-Young. — Emily Heng, beauty editor
Amuse Bebe Tint, $32.95, available at Olive Young
21 / 26
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
Lightweight to the touch, this buzzy sunscreen number from Skin1004 certainly doesn’t feel like one. Formulated with the brand’s signature combination of centella asiatica extract and hyaluronic acid, it’s hydrating effects are immediately distinguishable, and truly flourishes when it’s used after a morning round of toner, essence and moisturiser. Not only is it accompanied by an easy pump dispenser, it also glides on like a breeze and leaves no sign of it being a sunscreen (read: it’s white cast-free). Exactly what more can we ask for in our SPF? — Azrin Tan, digital writer
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum, $27 for 50ml, available at Olive Young
22 / 26
Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pad
Blemishes, begone. The OG in making me a toner pad convert? Mediheal’s Madecassoside Blemish Pad. Beyond its neat, effective packaging, these pads are heavily-doused with madecassoside and centella asiatica—both with healing properties to counter the effects of acne scars, redness or hyperpigmentation. Perfectly sized to one’s cheeks, it’s easy enough to apply one on each side, especially on days I’m feeling particularly tormented by acne-ridden skin. Not only does it feel instantly soothing, it’s proven to almost always be effective in its results by the morning, when I would find my skin calmer and less irritated—on top of its extremely hydrating benefits. — Azrin Tan, digital writer
Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pad, $33 for 100 pads, available at Olive Young
23 / 26
Jung Saem Mool Essential Micro Fitting Mist
Imagine hot spring water, without the heat. Instead, it’s cool and refreshing as it builds the perfect hydrating base to your make-up and/or even the finishing touch to lock in your base. Laden with minerals from 82% of hot spring water from the Czech Republic as well as moisturising extracts like fermented pearl and tillandsia usneoides, this bottle from Jung Sam Mool dispenses fine particles of mist evenly across your face, ensuring that all bases are covered. — Janice Sim, digital editor
Jung Saem Mool Essential Micro Fitting Mist , $28, available at Olive Young
24 / 26
Muzigae Mansion Object Liquid Lip Tint
I’ve always been a matte lip girlie at heart. Despite the newfound love for glossy tints, it’s hard to deny myself the dreamy finish of a soft, blurry swipe—one that perfectly melds with the powdery tones on my cheeks and lids. To that effect, I’ve consistently employed the velvety-smooth application of Muzigae Mansion’s Object Liquid Lip Tint, which also comes in a gorgeous light-refracting tube packaging that I’ve found to be something of a conversation starter. Consisting of a proprietary blend of thyme extract and rose cacina fruit oil, it definitely also lends to a deliciously smooth glide-on—one you can achieve with its angled applicator. And if I had to pick a personal favourite hue? 09 Perception wins the lot. — Azrin Tan, digital writer
Muzigae Mansion Object Liquid Lip Tint, $33, available at Olive Young
25 / 26
Torriden Cellmazing Vita C Brightening Mask Sheet
This is one of the essentials I pack in my suitcase and carry-ons. A quick-fixer that lathers on Vitamin C within an ultra-moisturising sheet. Your skin get a healthy dose of glycerin, hyaluronic acid alongside other nutrients—ensuring healthier, glowier and even bouncier skin the next morning. Either purchase in loose sheets or in a pack for a consistent routine. — Janice Sim, digital editor
Torriden Cellmazing Vita C Brightening Mask Sheet, $6 for one sheet, available at Olive Young
26 / 26
Too Cool For School Artclass by Rodin Shading
Bronzers aren’t an immediate go-to for my personal everyday look, but it definitely makes a difference for certain occasions. To that end, Too Cool For School’s entry has long established itself as a must-have in every vanity, and it’s easy to see why. Granting a natural strobe of colour, this palette of tonal hues is a winning trifecta of blendable shades—each one thoughtfully curated to accent the defined points of the face, from the hollows of your cheeks to the hairline and sides of the nose. No doubt, its winning factor for me is how subtle its shades are, easy to layer and build on for a deeper, moody finish. — Azrin Tan, digital writer
Too Cool For School Artclass by Rodin Shading, $23, available at Olive Young
