Korean Perm Hairstyles Male: Get the K-Pop Look

Whether you’re Korean or not, opting for a Korean perm can be an intriguing hairstyle choice. It’s a stylish and easily maintainable look that’s simple to achieve. However, it’s not as straightforward as grabbing a comb and clippers and going to town. Achieving this seemingly effortless style requires a specific approach and technique. To ensure you avoid a critical mistake, we’ve crafted a step-by-step guide to help you attain the perfect Korean perm. With our assistance, your hairstyling worries are a thing of the past, so keep reading to learn more.

What Is Korean Perm Men?

Recently, Korean men’s perm hairstyles have surged in popularity. However, it’s important to dispel the misconception that these perms result in poodle-like curls. In contrast, Korean men’s permed hair boasts a more natural and flattering appearance, far from resembling ramen noodles. To provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this trend and assist you in achieving your desired look, we’ve compiled this informative guide. As an added bonus, we’ve included a variety of hairstyle options and maintenance tips to help you on your style journey.

Why More Men Are Getting Obsessed With As Compared to Other Perming Trends?

Korean model and actress Jung Ho-Yeon, known for her captivating performance in Squid Game, not only impressed us with her acting but also left us in awe of her hair. Her effortlessly chic “messy” waves piqued our curiosity about the secrets behind her stunning look. This distinctive hairstyle is achieved through a specialized digital perm known as the Korean perm.
You might be pondering the intricacies of this curl-perm process and whether it will strain your budget. Questions may arise regarding where you can experience this transformation and how it compares, in terms of maintenance and durability, to traditional perms.
Surprisingly, these innovative Korean perm techniques, which often involve heat-perming, may offer a lower-maintenance option that aligns closely with traditional perm costs (depending on your chosen salon or stylist). What’s even more appealing is that these styles exude a contemporary and chic charm, giving off an “I-just-woke-up-this-beautiful” vibe.

Korean perming offers a wide range of style possibilities, including:

  • Gentle waves cascade primarily along the lower half of long hair.
  • Effortless beachy waves that require less upkeep compared to cold perms.
  • Manageable wavy hair that is simpler to fashion compared to tightly curled locks.
  • Smooth and less frizzy waves characterize the final look.
  • Achieving a finished style that resembles the result of using a large curling iron.
  • Hair that exudes a more natural and vibrant appearance in contrast to conventional perming techniques.

How to Get a Korean Perm?

Getting a Korean perm typically involves visiting a professional hairstylist or salon, as the process requires expertise and specialized equipment. Here are the general steps involved in getting a Korean perm:

  1. Consultation: Start by scheduling a consultation with a hairstylist who specializes in Korean perms. During the consultation, discuss your desired look and hair type to determine if a Korean perm is suitable for you.
  2. Hair Assessment: The hairstylist will assess your hair’s condition and type to recommend the most appropriate perm style. Korean perms are versatile and can range from loose waves to tighter curls.
  3. Preparation: On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean, dry hair. Your hairstylist may wash your hair if needed before proceeding.
  4. Application of Perm Solution: Your hairstylist will apply a perm solution to your hair, which breaks down the hair’s natural bonds, making it more pliable for the desired curl or wave pattern. The strength of the solution and the processing time will depend on your hair type and the desired outcome.
  5. Rollers and Wrapping: Your hair will be wrapped around perm rods or rollers in a specific pattern to achieve the desired curl or wave shape. The size of the rollers and the wrapping technique will vary based on the style you want.
  6. Neutralizing: After the perm solution has been processed, a neutralizing solution is applied to your hair to reform the hair bonds and set the curls or waves in place. This step is crucial for the longevity of your perm.
  7. Rinsing and Conditioning: Your hair will be thoroughly rinsed to remove any residual chemicals. A conditioning treatment may also be applied to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
  8. Styling: Once your hair is rinsed and conditioned, your hairstylist will style it according to your preferences. They may use a blow dryer, diffuser, or other styling tools to achieve the desired look.

Most Popular Korean Perm Hairstyles for Men

1)  Classy Perm:

korean perm hairstyles male
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The Classy Perm is a timeless hairstyle that adds subtle waves and volume, giving a sophisticated and polished look to anyone who wears it. Perfect for those who want a touch of elegance in their everyday style.

2) Curly Perm with Undercut

korean perm male
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The Curly Perm with Undercut combines a trendy undercut hairstyle with curly, voluminous locks on top, offering a bold and stylish contrast for a unique and fashionable look.

3) Parting Perm

korean perm for guys
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A Parting Perm is a hairstyling technique where only a portion of the hair is permed, creating curls or waves in a specific section while leaving the rest of the hair straight or styled differently. It’s a trendy choice for those who want a unique and customizable look.

4) Down Perm

down perm, down perm men
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A “Down Perm” is a Korean hairstyle for men where the curls flow downward, creating a natural and relaxed look. It’s popular for its casual and effortless style.

5) K-wave Perm

korean wave perm male
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The K-wave perm is a popular Korean hairstyle that combines soft waves with a relaxed, beachy look, giving men a stylish and effortless appearance. This trendy hairstyle is inspired by K-pop stars and has gained popularity for its versatility and relaxed charm.

6) Shadow Perm

shadow perm
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A Shadow Perm is a subtle and natural-looking hairstyle that adds depth and dimension to your hair, creating a soft and shadowy effect, ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish look.

7) See Through Perm

see through perm
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A “see-through perm” is a Korean hairstyle that combines subtle waves with a natural, translucent look. It creates a soft and effortless appearance, often preferred for its low-maintenance charm.

Maintain Your Korean Perm Hairstyle

Maintaining a Korean perm hairstyle is crucial to ensure it stays looking its best and lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to maintain your Korean perm:

1. Use the Right Hair Products:

  • Use shampoos and conditioners designed for permed or curly hair. These products are gentler and help maintain the shape of your curls or waves.
  • Avoid products containing harsh sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and disrupt the perm.

2. Limit Washing:

  • Try to avoid washing your hair daily, as frequent washing can strip away the natural oils that help maintain your curls.
  • Instead, opt for washing every 2-3 days, or as needed based on your hair type and lifestyle.

3. Condition Regularly:

  • Apply a deep conditioner or hair mask once a week to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness and frizz.
  • Focus the conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, where it tends to be drier.

4. Avoid Heat Styling:

  • Limit the use of heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons, as excessive heat can damage your perm.
  • If you need to use heat, use a heat protectant spray and set the tools at a lower temperature.

5. Air Dry Whenever Possible:

  • Allow your hair to air dry naturally to minimize damage from heat. If you must use a hair dryer, use a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting.

6. Avoid Tight Hairstyles:

  • Avoid tying your hair up in tight ponytails or buns, as this can disrupt the perm pattern and cause frizz.
  • Use loose hair ties or scrunchies when styling your hair.

7. Regular Trims:

  • Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape of your perm and prevent split ends.

8. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping:

  • Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent your curls from becoming flattened or frizzy while you sleep.
  • Consider wrapping your hair in a silk or satin scarf or using a soft hair bonnet to protect your curls.

9. Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater:

  • Chlorine in swimming pools and saltwater at the beach can be harsh on permed hair. Rinse your hair with clean water before and after swimming, and consider wearing a swim cap.

Remember that the key to maintaining a Korean perm is proper care and gentle handling of your hair. By following these tips and using the right products, you can enjoy your perm hairstyle for an extended period while keeping it healthy and beautiful.

Korean Perm Hairstyles FAQs

1) How Long Does a Korean Perm Last?
A Korean perm’s lifespan varies from six to ten months, influenced by hair care and the haircut you select.

2) How Much Does a Korean Perm Cost Male?
The cost of a Korean perm varies based on hair length, style, and salon choice, with a starting price of at least $60 for men (higher for women). Despite the initial cost, its long-lasting results often make it a worthwhile investment.

3) How Long Should Hair Be for Korean Perm Men?
For a Korean perm for men, hair should typically be around 3 to 5 inches in length for the best results.

4) What Type of Korean Perm Should I Get?
Korean perms include options like Bonnie or magic setting for short, round, or oval faces, body perm for shoulder-length hair with a heart-shaped face, and magic, grace, or hippie perm for longer hair with square or rectangular faces. If you have frizzy curls, a magic perm can help, while flat hair can benefit from a Korean root perm for added volume, a popular choice in Korean culture to make the face appear smaller.

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Cheryl Carter

After completing her master's degree, Cheryl Carter started her career as a content writer. She has completed 8 glorious years in content writing. She believes that everyone needs a wee bit of fashion knowledge in their life. Hence, she joins Looksgud to share the latest fashion and style tips to look trendy and stylish in every sense.