Makeup Tips from Top Artists Maeng, Lee Na-kyeum, and Seo Ok

K-pop idols are well-known for their flawless, youthful, and eye-catching makeup, setting trends globally with their iconic looks. Behind these trends are masterful makeup artists who play a pivotal role in crafting each idol's image. 

Let's discover the tips and techniques of three of the most influential makeup artists in the K-pop industry: Maeng, Lee Na-kyeum, and Seo Ok.

Maeng: Master of idol lashes

Maeng, a go-to makeup artist for the global sensation BlackPink, is one of the most recognizable names in the K-pop beauty scene. With a client list that includes Jennie, Rosé, Jisoo, and Lisa, Maeng's artistry is synonymous with the glamorous, high-fashion looks we associate with the girl group.

Beyond her work with BlackPink, Maeng has gained widespread attention through her YouTube channel, I AM MAENG, where she shares expert tutorials and insider secrets.

One of her most viral videos, The Ultimate Guide On Making Idol Lashes!!!, has garnered over three million views, solidifying her as a go-to source for makeup enthusiasts.

In this video, Maeng provides a detailed guide on achieving the individually defined, spidery eyelash look. The key to this lash style is precision and separation.

Maeng advises using tweezers to carefully place individual lashes, ensuring each lash stands out for a spidery yet fluttery effect. She also stresses the importance of using a light coat of mascara, such as HEIMISH Dailism Smudge Stop Mascara, to enhance the lashes without weighing them down.

Start by curling the lashes with SHU UEMURA Eyelash Curler to create lift, then use a defining mascara to coat individual lashes. Finally, false lashes are applied in sections, focusing on separation and definition for a dramatic yet delicate result.

Lee Na-kyeum: Sculpting the 3D Face for NewJeans

Lee Na-kyeum, the makeup director behind the ultra-popular girl group NewJeans known for her fresh and youthful concept. NewJeans relies on Lee Na-kyeum's minimalist yet impactful 3D face style to enhance their natural beauty.

The 3D face technique is about adding depth to the face with a minimalistic approach. Lee Na-kyeum uses light layers of makeup to subtly highlight and contour the face.

For example, Lee applies a soft, neutral-toned contour, such as TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL Art Class by Rodin Shading, to create the illusion of high cheekbones and a sculpted jawline.

She follows this up with a sheer blush to add colour and liveliness to the cheeks. The secret lies in blending—Lee ensures that each product seamlessly fades into the skin, creating a natural 3D effect without harsh lines.

Seo Ok: Achieving Wonyoung's glass skin and signature lips

When achieving that sought-after glass-skin look, no one does it better than Seo Ok. As a highly respected Korean makeup artist who has worked with some of the biggest names in K-pop, including Girls' Generation, BABYMONSTER, and IVE, Seo Ok's expertise is unparalleled. Her work on IVE's Wonyoung, in particular, has caught the attention of fans and beauty experts alike.

In a video for Allure Korea titled How Was Won-young's Signature Moist Wet Lip and Peeled Egg Skin Created, Seo Ok breaks down the secrets behind Wonyoung's iconic look.

The peeled egg skin refers to smooth, poreless, and luminous skin—much like the surface of a freshly peeled egg. To achieve this, Seo Ok recommends starting with a hydrating primer, such as A'PIEU Start Up Pore Primer, and layering a lightweight, dewy foundation. The goal is to create a glow-from-within effect that enhances the skin's natural radiance.

To complement the glass skin, Wonyoung's signature moist wet lip look is all about hydration and shine. Seo Ok suggests using a lip balm, such as INNISFREE Canola Honey Lip Balm, as a base, followed by a glossy lip tint or oil to give the lips a plump, youthful appearance.

The key is to avoid overly pigmented lip colours, opting instead for soft pinks and nudes that enhance the natural lip colour while adding a juicy finish.

Bringing K-pop makeup techniques into your routine

Whether you're looking to experiment with idol lashes, sculpt a natural 3D face, or achieve flawless glass skin, the techniques of these top K-pop makeup artists provide endless inspiration.

Maeng's attention to detail, Lee Na-kyeum's minimalist approach, and Seo Ok's focus on glowing, dewy skin all offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to up their makeup game. 

You can channel the effortless beauty of your favourite K-pop idols by incorporating these expert tips into your routine.