Complete Guide to Layered Haircuts at Korean Hair Salons｜For First-Time Japanese Visitors to Hongdae and Seongsu
💇♀️ A guide for Japanese visitors getting their first cut in Hongdae and Seongsu
🎯 Why Japanese Visitors Choose Layered Cuts at Korean Hair Salons
The purpose of traveling to Korea is no longer limited to shopping and medical beauty treatments.
Recently, we have often heard Japanese tourists say, “I want to try a layered cut at a Korean hair salon,” even during our editorial team’s interviews.
The reason is simple. Flowing layered cuts and perm techniques that enhance volume at the roots are attracting attention among beauty media and stylists both in Korea and abroad.
💁♀️ What Is the Difference Between Japanese and Korean Haircuts?
Japanese hair salons have their own delicate approach to using thinning shears to adjust hair volume.
Korean hair salons, on the other hand, take a slightly different approach to texturizing.
They add layers so that the ends flow naturally while retaining weight. The stylist who worked with us at a salon in Seongsu commented, “Rather than making the hair lighter, the Korean style creates a direction for it to flow.”
✅ Key Point
Korean-style layered cuts tend to prioritize “flow” over “lightness.” They are designed to create movement and definition between strands.
🌀 What Is Moryu Correction Perm (Ringer Perm)?
A popular service at Korean hair salons is a perm that shapes the direction of the hair at the roots.
In Korean, it is called “모류교정 (Moryu Correction),” also known as a Ringer Perm.
It creates natural volume that follows the shape of the head, adding movement to the forehead and crown areas, which tend to look flat.
The finished look is characterized by appearing less like “having had a perm” and more like “this is naturally how your hair grows.”
However, the longevity and results vary depending on your hair type and condition. Since the stylist will determine the appropriate approach, a consultation beforehand is important.
📍 Why Hair Salons Are Concentrated in Hongdae and Seongsu
Hongdae (Hongik University) and Seongsu are attracting attention as competitive hubs for Korean hair salons.
Hongdae is a trendsetting center for younger generations, while Seongsu is a highly fashion-conscious area known as “the Brooklyn of Korea.”
Competition among designers is intense in both areas, and trends in hair techniques are said to evolve quickly. These areas are ideal for anyone who wants to try the latest trends. For information on cafés and shops in each area, also check out YEPPURIKO’s Hongdae and Seongsu travel guide articles.
💬 How to Overcome the Language Barrier at Korean Hair Salons
For Japanese tourists at Korean hair salons, communication is their biggest concern.
If you translate the Japanese phrase “please thin it out” as is, Korean stylists may have difficulty understanding your intention. This is because the approach to texturizing itself differs.
The safest option is to show them a photo.
✅ Tips for Communicating Your Request
We recommend verbally adding your preference for “a light but non-voluminous layered style” while showing 2–3 photos of your ideal hairstyle.
📅 Tips for Reservations and Getting Around
✅ Booking Early Gives You Peace of Mind
Popular hair salons tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Once your travel dates are set, it’s best to contact them as early as possible to ensure availability.
✅ Different Service Times for Cuts and Perms
A haircut alone takes 1–2 hours, while including a perm can take 3 hours or more. It’s recommended to allow plenty of time while considering your sightseeing plans.
📝 What to Confirm During Your Consultation
✅ Japanese/English Support
For peace of mind, confirm when booking whether the salon is accustomed to serving Japanese tourists. It’s also a good idea to prepare a translation app for use as needed.
✅ Sharing Your Hair Type and Treatment History
Be sure to mention any previous coloring or perm treatments. The final result and choice of products may vary depending on your history.
✨ Summary
☑ Korean-style layered cuts are characterized by “flow” rather than “lightness”
☑ Create natural root volume with a Moryu correction perm
☑ Hongdae and Seongsu are ideal for those who want to try the latest trends
☑ Communicate your desired style with photos rather than words
☑ Book early and allow plenty of time
Just changing your hairstyle may make you see yourself a little differently after your trip.
💌 Read next
If you are becoming interested in Korean hair salons, YEPPURIKO also publishes features on recommended salons in Seoul and beauty guides for trips to Korea. We also share the latest information on Instagram → @yeppuriko
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a Moryu correction perm?
A. It is a perm called “모류교정” in Korean that organizes the direction of the hair flow at the roots. Also called a “ringer perm,” it is characterized by creating natural volume that follows the shape of the head.
Q. What should I do if I cannot communicate effectively at a Korean hair salon?
A. The most reliable method is to show 2–3 photos of your ideal hairstyle. Using a translation app and choosing a salon accustomed to assisting Japanese customers when making your reservation can also provide peace of mind.
Q. How long do a haircut and perm take?
A. A haircut alone takes 1–2 hours, while including a Moryu correction perm may take 3 hours or more. Consider your sightseeing plans and create a schedule with plenty of time.
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