I’ll be honest: After I moved to Korea, I waited way too long to get a haircut. Despite Korea being relatively easy to navigate without knowing Korean, I was worried about needing to use translating apps or being misunderstood in English at a hair salon. I think this fear was understandable. No one wants a bad haircut. When I finally got around to getting my hair cut this past week, I realized all my fears about Korean hair salons were completely silly. I got the exact cut I needed, and now I regret not going sooner!
There are tons of places in Korea you can go to get your hair cut and styled. Just don’t be like me and put it off. You have nothing to be afraid of. Here’s some important info to set your mind at ease before you make an appointment!
Prices
In general, Korean prices for hair care are relatively affordable. A basic cut for a woman (including a basic scalp treatment or massage) is about 40,000 won. At a decent salon, men’s cuts are usually between 15,000 and 25,000 won. Not bad! Also, it’s important to note that you NEVER HAVE TO TIP for a hair appointment in Korea, even if you’re getting an expensive treatment. This is huge!
Language Barrier
While most salons will understand basic English, the best way to ensure that you get exactly what you want is to bring a picture! That way there’s no confusion! Here are a couple of popular salons that are English-friendly, including the one I went to!
Some Recommendations
This is the place I chose, and I would definitely recommend it! I was able to book an appointment online in English. When I got there, I was able to communicate easily and got the exact cut I wanted. Everyone who helped me was friendly and professional!
Juno Hair is very popular for foreigners because it is an English-friendly salon with locations across Korea. There’s actually one right across from my academy, which is another reason I can’t believe I waited so long to get a haircut. A friend of mine goes to Juno Hair and loves it!
Let’s not forget about the men! While Juno Hair and Suin’s Hair Salon both cut men’s hair, Evanstyle specializes in men’s hair cuts, and they have English-speaking barbers. They have two locations in popular areas in Seoul.
Wherever you choose to go, you’ll be in good hands. Here’s an article written by 10 Magazine that list some more options for hair salons in Korea that can meet your needs!
Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant
Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.