💇‍♀️ Foreign-Friendly Haircuts and Beauty Services in Korea: What to Ask and Expect

💈 Here’s What to Expect at Korean Hair Salons

Going to a local hair salon can feel very intimidating if you are a foreigner in Korea. You might wonder, “Will they understand what I want for hair? Can I trust the result?” The good thing is that Korean hair salons are known for their quality and professionalism. Even small hair shops in your neighborhood mostly offer special services like digital perms or gradient dye. So, with proper communications, you can get your hair done way better than you expect in Korea.

When you walk into a salon, some workers usually say “어서오세요” (which means “Welcome!” in Korean) and offer you soft drinks or water while you wait. Most of them help you get your jacket off first and wear a salon gown whatever service you would get. After you’re seated, a stylist will consult with you in terms of the service you would like — cut, dye or trim — before you begin. Unlike in other countries, Korea emphasizes consultation and personalized care. This includes shampoo, cutting, rinsing, and often free styling.

Most salons include shampooing and blow-drying in the base price, but some would ask you for an extra charge when you have long hair. You can somewhat get confused about different charges depending on your hair length, but it’s pretty common sense in Korea. On the other hand, you don’t need to tip on top of total price they ask for because all service is included in the cost.

💵 Knowing the Costs of Haircuts, Perms, and Colors

If you understand the price structure, usually the hair cost is affordable in Korea. Most salons have their own menus that explain what each service includes, but they might be written in Korean only. So read their menu listed on Naver Map, which almost every hair salon uploads their info on, before you visit their shop. Here’s a general idea of average prices you might encounter in Seoul:

Service	Average Price (KRW)
Basic Cut	15,000 – 30,000
Hair Dye	50,000 – 100,000
Perm (Regular)	60,000 – 120,000
Digital or Setting Perm	100,000 – 200,000
Bleach + Color	150,000+

Some fancy salons in Gangnam or Apgujeong might charge twice as much, but they also offer private rooms, scalp spa treatments, and stylists who speak English. It’s worth it for special occasions.

🗣️ Learn How to Express Your Style in Korean

Not every salon has staff who speak English. But don’t worry — many foreign residents get great haircuts by showing photos of what they want. However, there are a few Korean expressions that can help you achieve the desired style:

Korean Phrase	Meaning
앞머리 잘라 주세요	Please cut my bangs.
너무 짧지 않게요	Not too short, please.
레이어 컷 해 주세요	I want layered hair.
염색 하고 싶어요	I’d like to dye my hair.

💡 Tip: Save a few Korean beauty terms in your notes or on Google Translate before visiting. Even stylists who are confident appreciate the effort, and it builds trust.

📲 Booking Tips: Apps and English-friendly Options

Just a few years ago, most salons in Korea took phone calls or in-person visits for quick haircuts, but that has changed completely. Now you should use apps like Naver 예약 and 마메드네 (the new version of Kakao Hair Shop) to book appointments or even message stylists via Instagram. Because reviews and ratings are extremely important for salons, many prefer that you use these platforms from the beginning. Always check that your appointment is confirmed. These apps let you browse salons, see portfolios, check reviews, and reserve your time slot.

If you’re unsure, search for “외국인미용실 + [지역명]” in Korean or post in expat Facebook groups. Also, salons near areas like Itaewon, Hongdae, and Gangnam tend to have more English-speaking stylists and are familiar with international hair textures and requests.

👩‍🦱 Which Hair Services Are Best for Your Hair Type?

Not all hair types turn out the same way with Korean hair techniques. Salons in Korea mainly treat straight and thick hair, so foreigners should be cautious when choosing treatments. Try searching for a stylist on Instagram with experience in “foreign hair” or “multicultural hair” — many post before/after pictures in English.

• Curly or Coily Hair: Look for salons that mention experience with multicultural or textured hair. Avoid regular perms, which are designed for straight hair. Heat styling may also damage your natural curl pattern.
• Fine Hair: Fragile hair can break easily from perms or dye. Go for cuts that add volume and avoid chemical-heavy processes. Light styling mousse or heatless rollers are safer options.
• Afro-textured Hair: Some salons in Itaewon or near the U.S. military base offer braiding, twisting, or protective styling. Always check reviews first.
• Wavy Hair: Setting perms work well to define your waves. Avoid straightening unless you’re going for a flat, silky style.
• Thick Straight Hair: Korean salons are perfect for this. Layered cuts, C-curl or S-curl perms, and balayage coloring work beautifully.
• Bleached or Damaged Hair: Go for protein-rich “clinic” treatments. Avoid more bleaching. Use leave-in salon oils and trim every 2–3 months to recover slowly.

Always ask: “혹시 제 머리 타입 괜찮을까요?” (Is my hair type okay for this service?) Stylists will appreciate your awareness, and you’ll likely get a better result.

🏆 Recommended Salons for Foreigners in Seoul

Here are some popular salons recommended by expats. They are known for their bilingual staff and quality service:

• Lazzy Salon (Gangnam)
  📍 Google Maps | @lazzy_seoul
• Juno Hair (Multiple branches)
  📍 Juno Hongdae Branch | @junohair_official
• Soonsiki Hair (Hongdae)
  📍 Google Maps | @soonsiki_hair
• Hair & Joy (Hongdae)
  📍 Google Maps | @hairandjoy_seoul

You can find more information on platforms like Trazy or Naver Map. Look for salons with high ratings and recent reviews from foreigners.

❓ Q&A: Here are some common questions about hair salons that foreigners often ask.

1. Can I come in without an appointment?
   Recently, no. I strongly recommend you making a reservation beforehand.
2. Do I need to tip them?
   In Korea, tipping isn’t common. Prices include all fees.
3. Will they get what I’m saying in English?
   In tourist areas, yes. In your local neighborhood, make a list of photos and key Korean phrases.
4. Can I bring my own shampoo?
   Yes, but most salons use salon-grade products that are already included in the price.
5. What if I don’t like the result?
   You can politely ask for minor corrections. Most hair shops offer free touch-ups.
6. How long normally does it take to perm?
   Digital perms can take between two and a half and three and a half hours. The exact time depends on the length and hair type.
7. Can I get colors that are not natural?
   Of course! Pastel colors, gray, pink, and ombré styles are popular among students.
8. When is the best time to make a reservation?
   Spring and fall are the most popular times. Summer humidity can make it hard for hair to stay looking its best.
9. Do Korean salons offer facial waxing services?
   Yes — waxing the upper lip, brow, and chin is common and affordable.
10. Do consultations cost money?
    Some are yes, some are no. You can ask if they charge extra for the consultation, but in my experience, the short consultation before the procedure was free.

🔗 Click to see more guides about life in Korea.

Korean Socializing Etiquette Guide – Learn how to behave in group settings, from after-school gatherings to noraebang rules.

Guide to Digital Certifications in Korea – If you want to use Korean apps for things like booking a hair salon or banking, you should read this guide.