5 trending Korean makeup styles: Holographic highlights, champagne cheeks…

When we think about beauty and makeup innovations, South Korea comes to mind. K-beauty trends are always ahead of the curve, and it comes as no surprise that they are still leading these trends this year.

The future of K-beauty is ever-changing. Below, we take you through the latest K-makeup styles to help you stay on trend in 2025, as seen on idols like Blackpink’s Jisoo, ITZY’s Yeji and more.

Holographic highlights

 

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A post shared by YEJI (@yezyizhere)

Not just any ordinary highlight, the holographic highlight is one to give you that gorgeous, ethereal shine.  

ITZY’s leader Yeji truly shines with an iridescent highlight, which enhances her cheeks with a translucent sparkle. It gives off a multidimensional glow, illuminating her complexion.

Champagne cheeks

TEN 'STUNNER' BAMBOLA Image

TEN The 2nd Mini Album 【STUNNER】
➫ 2025.03.24 6PM (KST)

🔗https://t.co/Opa2iCLL9l
💿https://t.co/0pNNvvrLHk #TEN #李永钦 #텐 #STUNNER #TEN_STUNNER #NCT #WayV #威神V pic.twitter.com/3RDvsOq0fv

— NCT (@NCTsmtown) March 18, 2025

Who doesn’t love an intense blush statement? You know the natural blush one gets after a couple of champagnes — and hence the name, champagne cheeks. 

NCT’s Ten looks particularly sun-kissed and radiant with the bold, blushed look in his latest concept photos. This makeup trend creates a fresh and energetic vibe, making it perfect to incorporate into your spring makeup routine.

Satin skin

Who isn’t aware of the iconic glass skin trend? 

This year, we’re taking it to the next level with the satin skin trend. This trend features a natural, luminous glow with a silky finish.

Read more: The Sulwhasoo first care activating serum is a one drop wonder

Yoona of Girls’ Generation portrays the perfect “satin skin” face glow in her latest campaign for Sulwhasoo. This trend emphasises the importance of hydration to maintaining a fresh and silky complexion.

Metallic accents

 

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It’s not a K-beauty trend without some unique eye-catching details, is it?

Well, it seems like adding metallic accents is the key to spicing up your everyday makeup look. 

Take it from LE SSERAFIM’s Chaewon: the singer added a fun metallic highlight to the inner corners of her eyes. The sparkle is subtle but defined, creating a brightening, radiant effect. This style also adds a dramatic flair to your makeup look effortless.

Blurred lips

 

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Forget lip liners, this makeup trend is all about the diffused edges and smudged lines. 

Soft, blurred lips continue to be loved and embraced by many K-stars, including Blackpink’s Jisoo, who is seen rocking the blurred lips trend. This style focuses on creating a natural and effortless finish to your makeup look. 

The beauty of this trend? It’s versatility.

Whether you prefer a subtle effect or a blurred-out statement, you can easily choose any lip shades to cater to this trend.