If you’re a K-pop or K-drama fan, chances are you’ve noticed how the actresses and the idols can’t seem to get enough of sporting various kinds of fun hairstyles. But one thing that doesn’t seem to go away is their love for their bangs which give effortless and youthful-looking vibes. Wondering if you should try it out too? Check out these top Korean-style bangs and find out which one you like best.
Make the cut and bloom into your main character era just like (G)I-DLE’s Minnie. (Photo from: @min.nicha)
Top Korean bangs trends
1. Air bangs
Red Velvet’s Wendy shows off her charms with a flipped bob and air bangs. (Photo from: @todayis_wendy)
Air bangs (sometimes called see-through bangs) are loved for their delicate, wispy nature, as seen on Red Velvet’s Wendy.
If you’re apprehensive about getting bangs, then you might want to start with this soft and minimalist look. These won’t cover your forehead, so they’re perfect if you’re going for a subtle change in your hairstyle. You can easily put them to the side of your face on days when you don’t feel like wearing bangs.
But here are some things to keep in mind if you’re getting these bangs: they typically fall just above your eyelashes so you will have to keep trimming them to maintain their length. They also work best for people with straight hair.
Maintain this K-hair style with: a round ceramic brush, like this one from GHD. This hair tool helps to add volume to your fringe Be sure to choose the right bristle that suits your hair type to achieve your desired style.
2. Curtain bangs
Girls Generation’s Lim Yoona looks stunning in her curtain bangs, which complement her soft makeup look. (Photo from: @yoona_lim)
Compared to air bangs which work best for people with straight hair, curtain bangs can look great with curly hair styles too, just like K-pop goddess Yoona’s.
Maintain this K-hair style with: hair rollers. This set from Revolution Hair does the job as it has an assortment of hair rollers for you to create your desired curly fringe effect. Hair rollers are also an easier, healthier alternative to hot hair irons. This will help maintain the volume and texture of your hair.
3. Blunt bangs
@lalalalisa_m baby, I’m a rockstar 🎸
♬ Rockstar - LISA
This is BLACKPINK member Lisa’s signature 'do, and there’s no doubt that blunt bangs look particularly sleek and stylish on straight, thick hair. This fringe style covers your entire forehead and highlights your eyes. If you have an oval face shape, you’re in luck ‘cause this style of bangs will look particularly flattering on you. Here’s a little hair styling trick: style your bangs such that they curve upward in the centre — this creates a visually elongating effect for your face.
Maintain this K-hair style with: a good hair spray, like this flexible hold and humidity-resistant mist from Percy & Reed. P.S. Holding your bangs in place with a quality hair spray is also BLACKPINK Lisa’s favourite hack for keeping her blunt bangs flawless all day, every day.
4. Micro bangs
NewJeans’ Maknae Hyein sports long black hair with micro bangs. (Photo from: x.com/NewJeans_ADOR)
If you’re feeling quite brave, micro bangs are the way to go. It usually falls in the middle of your forehead and works best if you have a small face. NewJeans' Maknae AKA youngest member Hyein frequently switches between hairstyles without a fringe and micro bangs. You can find other celebrities who gave their twist on this fringe style right here.
Maintain this K-hair style with: a talc-free dry shampoo, such as this one from Amika that absorbs oil and gives hair a freshly washed look while restoring the hair's volume. This is great for maintaining different hair styles, whether you’re aiming for a sleek, polished look, or a more natural and tousled style for your micro bangs.
5. Long side bangs
TWICE’s Nayeon channels a dreamy look with her long side bangs. (Photo from: @nayeonyny)
As seen on TWICE’s member Nayeon, this style is similar to curtain bangs, except that it’s longer and isn’t heavily layered. It works well if you prefer to put your hair up while leaving a few subtle pieces to frame your face.
Maintain this K-hair style with: a hassle-free blow-dry mist. Instead of following a time-consuming blow-drying routine, level up the style of your side bangs easily with this volumising spray from Olaplex. This tool helps you achieve smooth, glossy, and bouncy blowouts for a more distinctive bangs style.
6. Side-swept bangs
NewJeans' Haerin looks adorable channeling side-swept bangs. (Photo from: @newjeans_official)
For girlies with diamond-shaped faces, side-swept bangs are perfect for you. This style adds dimension to your face shape and flatters every hair type. Easy to style and oh-so-versatile, we're seeing side-swept bangs dominating the K-hair scene once again. This cut has been spotted on K-celeb trendsetters, including NewJeans’ Haerin. BLACKPINK Lisa nailed this hairstyle in the music video for her new single ‘ROCKSTAR’ too.
Maintain this K-hair style with: a pin tail comb, such as this baby blue version from Briogeo. This tool helps you to section, tease, and style your hair with precision, especially if you have baby hair.
Which Korean bangs trend has your vote?
(Cover photo from: @min.nicha)
This article was first published on 14 August 2023. Last updated: 31 July 2024.
Next, unlock the secret to a good hairstyle with these hair treatments that you can use at home.
Comments, questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected].
