Korean celebrities always seem to have that perfect, glowing skin, a flawless base, and effortlessly elegant makeup—whether they’re starring in K-dramas, performing on stage, or simply posting a selfie. But their beauty secrets aren’t completely out of reach.
Many Korean stars swear by tried-and-true K-beauty products (and a few select global favourites), and we’ve done the research to bring you a list of the best makeup products Korean celebrities actually use.
Whether you want to replicate BLACKPINK Jisoo’s soft glam, IU’s innocent flush, or Jeon Somi’s edgy aesthetic, this roundup will guide you to the exact products they love.
1. Hera Black Cushion – Loved by Jennie (BLACKPINK)
Jennie from BLACKPINK is the face of Hera, one of Korea’s most luxurious beauty brands. Her go-to foundation? The Hera Black Cushion, a semi-matte cushion foundation that offers long-lasting coverage without looking cakey.
Why celebs love it:
- Lightweight texture but powerful coverage
- Great oil control with a natural finish
- SPF 34 PA++ for sun protection
Best for: Those who want flawless, breathable coverage that holds up under lights or long days.
Read also: [REVIEW] HERA Black Foundation
2. Clio Kill Cover The New Founwear Cushion – Used by ITZY’s Yuna
If you’re looking for a drugstore alternative that performs like high-end, the Clio Kill Cover Cushion is a favorite among K-pop idols like Yuna from ITZY. Known for its long-wear, semi-matte finish, it offers full coverage that still looks like skin.
Why celebs love it:
- 72-hour coverage claim with sweat resistance
- Blurs pores and uneven skin tone
- Chic packaging perfect for on-the-go
Best for: Fans of long-lasting cushion foundations with a camera-ready finish.
3. Espoir Real Eye Palette – Worn by Red Velvet’s Joy
Espoir is often spotted on celeb vanity tables, and the Real Eye Palette is particularly loved for its wearable color stories and high-pigment formulas. Red Velvet’s Joy has shared her love for soft brown-pink shades that create dimension without looking heavy.
Why celebs love it:
- Compact design with mix of mattes and shimmers
- Buildable formula, perfect for day-to-night looks
- Subtle but glam
Best for: Anyone aiming for soft, romantic Korean eye makeup.
4. VDL Lumilayer Primer – Used by EXID’s Hani
To get that signature “glass skin” glow, many Korean makeup artists swear by the VDL Lumilayer Primer, used frequently by celebs like Hani from EXID. It gives the skin a lit-from-within radiance that looks amazing on camera and in real life.
Why celebs love it:
- Brightens dull skin instantly
- Helps foundation adhere better
- No glitter—just pure radiance
Best for: Dry or dull skin that needs a dewy boost.
5. Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint – Worn by NewJeans & Seventeen’s Joshua
This viral lip tint is the darling of idols like NewJeans’ Minji and Seventeen’s Joshua, and it’s easy to see why. The Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint gives a fresh, syrupy gloss without the stickiness.
Why celebs love it:
- Glassy shine with a stain that lasts
- Comes in K-pop inspired shades (Figfig, Cherry Bomb, etc.)
- Comfortable and hydrating
Best for: Daily lip looks that require minimal touch-ups.
6. Peripera Ink Velvet – Used by Weki Meki’s Doyeon
The Peripera Ink Velvet has cult status in Korea and remains a go-to for idols like Doyeon from Weki Meki. It offers a velvety soft matte finish with a plush, air-whipped texture.
Why celebs love it:
- Lightweight but pigmented
- Blurs lip lines
- Budget-friendly
Best for: Creating gradient lips or full-impact colour that feels like nothing.
7. Etude Play Color Eyes Palette – Used by K-drama Actresses
Etude remains a staple in the kits of younger celebs and K-drama actresses. The Play Color Eyes Palettes offer trendy colours in compact designs. From pastel peach to deep brown, there’s something for every mood.
Why celebs love it:
- Trend-driven colour combinations
- Soft blendability perfect for Korean-style eye makeup
- Easy for beginners and pros alike
Best for: Soft glam, school-ready, or date-night looks.
8. Innisfree Auto Eyebrow Pencil – Used by Kim Tae-ri
Even the most glamorous idols keep a few everyday staples in their routine—and the Innisfree Auto Eyebrow Pencil is one of them. Kim Tae-ri and other K-drama stars are known to use this brow-defining essential.
Why celebs love it:
- Natural finish that mimics real brow hair
- Easy to use, even for beginners
- Affordable and refillable
Best for: Fluffy, defined brows without sharp lines.
9. 3CE Face Blush – Worn by Jeon Somi
The 3CE Mood Recipe Blush collection is beloved by idols like Jeon Somi, who loves soft coral and dusty rose shades. These blushes offer the perfect balance of buildable pigment and smooth texture.
Why celebs love it:
- Matte formula doesn’t emphasise texture
- Chic monochrome packaging
- Blurs into skin for that “lit from within” flush
Best for: Natural flushes or layering for more drama.
10. Sulwhasoo Perfecting Foundation – Worn by Song Hye-kyo
As a global ambassador for Sulwhasoo, Song Hye-kyo represents the pinnacle of Korean elegance. The Sulwhasoo Perfecting Foundation delivers skincare-infused coverage that leaves a radiant satin finish.
Why celebs love it:
- Infused with ginseng and skincare actives
- Long-lasting hydration and even tone
- Gives a polished, age-defying look
Best for: Mature skin or those seeking a luxe foundation experience.
Bonus Picks: Must-Have Tools from Celebrity Makeup Artists
- Piccasso Brushes – Used by the pros who glam up IU and BLACKPINK
- Olens Colored Contacts – Worn by nearly every K-pop idol for that doe-eyed effect
- The Tool Lab Sponges – The go-to blending sponge for celebrity makeup artists
Final Thoughts: Recreate Your Favorite K-Celeb Look
Korean celebrities don’t just have great genes—they have access to some of the best makeup products in the world, many of which are easily available online. Whether you’re after the healthy glow of Song Hye-kyo or the bold lip tint of NewJeans, there’s a product (and technique) to help you get there.
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