How to explain your hairstyle to a Korean stylist

The three things that matter most

Photos, numbers and history carry most of the message. Words are the extra layer on top.

1. Photos. Show the style you want from the front, side and back if you can. Add one photo of your hair as it is now.
2. Numbers. Say lengths in centimeters. “A little shorter” means different things to different people, while “3 cm shorter” does not.
3. History. List past perms, bleach, color and straightening, with dates. This protects your hair.

Choosing good reference photos

• Pick a photo of someone with hair that is similar to yours in thickness, curl and color.
• Choose clear, well-lit photos. Heavy filters hide the real color and shape.
• Mark what you like. Say “the length” or “the bangs”, not “everything”.
• Add a photo of what you do not want. It is often as useful as the one you do.

Save the photos in one album on your phone so you can swipe through them quickly.

Be ready to be flexible. A photo shows one person’s hair under one light, and your hair may not do the same thing. A good designer explains what is possible with your hair, and what would need a different plan. Listen to the explanation before you agree, and ask for the adjusted version if the first idea is not what you wanted.

Useful Korean words

A few words help, even with perfect photos. Show this table on your phone if you like.

Show the Korean text on your phone and point to the photo at the same time.

How to describe length and shape

Use your own body as a ruler: show the length at your chin, collarbone or shoulder blade. Say how much you want to remove, for example “2 cm” or “to here”. For layers, say whether you want them near the face only or all around. For bangs, say whether you want them thick, light or see-through, and where they should end on your face.

Describe how you style: air dry, blow dry or iron. A cut that works on a dryer may not work when you air dry. The guides on Korean women’s styles and Korean men’s styles list the common shapes.

Color, perm and treatment requests

For color, bring a photo and say if you want it lighter, darker or the same tone with more shine. Bleach is needed for most big lightening jumps, and hair history decides whether it is safe. For a perm, say how much curl you want: loose waves, soft curl or tight curl. Look at the perm types guide to learn the names.

For any chemical service, the designer will confirm price and plan before starting. Ask for the price before work begins.

At WENEED Haeundae

The designers are Jin, Bitna and Saemi. Each has a price sheet, so ask for the price of your service. Examples from the menu: women’s cut ₩25,000, men’s cut from ₩20,000, bangs cut ₩10,000 on Jin’s price sheet. See the price list. The salon is 71 m from Jangsan Station Exit 5 and open daily 10:00 to 20:00. The 2nd floor is stairs only. Read how to book for the steps.

Frequently asked questions

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