In South Korea, looking young isn’t just a beauty goal—it’s practically a way of life. Age isn’t just a number here; it’s a big deal in social interactions, work, and even how people treat each other. So it’s no surprise that many Koreans go the extra mile to maintain a "baby face."
Why Does Looking Young Matter So Much in Korea?
When Koreans meet someone new, one of the first questions they ask is, “How old are you?” It’s not meant to be rude—age determines how they address you and the level of respect they use. But once ages are shared, the compliments start rolling in: “Wow, you don’t look your age!” If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you’ll still hear this often, and yes, you’re expected to return the compliment!
What Makes Someone Look Young in Korea?
Korean beauty standards have some clear ideas about what makes a person look youthful. Here are some key features:
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Flawless, fair skin – Smooth, blemish-free skin (often called "babylike skin") is the ultimate goal.
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Small chin and round features – The "baby face" look favors softer, rounder features over sharp or angular ones.
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Thick, healthy hair – Full hair is seen as youthful, while thinning hair can make someone look older.
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A V-shaped face – A lifted, contoured look is preferred over the sagging that naturally comes with age.
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A cute, bright expression – A youthful attitude and playfulness go a long way in maintaining the illusion of youth!
Celebrities like Jang Na-ra and BLACKPINK’s Jennie are often praised for their ageless looks, reinforcing these beauty ideals.
The Booming Anti-Aging Industry
Korea’s beauty industry is built around the idea that aging should be delayed as much as possible. Unlike in the West, where people are starting to embrace natural aging, Korea is still all about maintaining a youthful glow.
Popular treatments include:
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Ultherapy (Ulthera) – A non-invasive ultrasound treatment that tightens skin.
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Botox and fillers – To smooth wrinkles and add volume.
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10-step skincare routines – Packed with anti-aging serums, sheet masks, and laser treatments.
YouTube and social media are full of content on how to achieve a “dongan” (literally meaning "baby face"), and clinics aggressively market treatments to keep aging at bay.
The Pressure of Staying Young Forever
While some love Korea’s beauty culture, others feel the pressure to look young can be overwhelming. Experts say the real challenge is accepting aging in a society that’s obsessed with youth.
Psychologists suggest:
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Being kind to yourself – Instead of stressing over every new wrinkle, appreciate how far your body has carried you.
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Changing your perspective – Aging isn’t a flaw—it’s proof of wisdom and experience.
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Building a supportive mindset – Talking about aging with friends can help break the stigma and reduce anxiety.
What About Foreigners? Can You Relate?
If you’ve spent time in Korea, you’ve probably noticed how big a deal youthful looks are. While Western trends are shifting toward embracing aging, Korea is still holding onto its love for looking forever young. But as self-acceptance gains traction, the conversation might start to change.