Stop only shopping at Olive Young — this is where Seoul celebrity makeup artists secretly restock
Once you go, you’ll be hooked!
Think beauty shopping in Korea means just heading to Olive Young? You’ll miss out on so many hidden gems. Lately, celebrity makeup artists have been quietly recommending Hemeko, a makeup specialty store in Hongdae and Myeong-dong. It’s incredibly low-key, but once you step inside, you’ll wonder: How am I only discovering this place now?!
- Related reading: Spring/Summer 2026 beauty trends: Get “Glazed Blush” glass-skin, dewy cheeks like Korean stars!
The displays inside are an organizing addict’s happy place, with every makeup product neatly arranged by color family. Browsing feels incredibly soothing. Best of all, the store specializes in high-performing products that you can’t find at Olive Young but are hugely popular in niche beauty circles, from brightening blushes and dewy lipsticks to the same products used by idols. If you’re looking to discover something special and don’t want to end up with the same products as everyone else, this place is heaven.
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Must-Buy Item 1: AOU Glowy Tint Balm
Once you’re in the store, make a beeline for the AOU Glowy Tint Balm. The brand’s founder is the go-to makeup artist for Jang Wonyoung, aespa, and Suzy, so for fangirls who want to recreate their idols’ signature makeup looks in everyday life, this is the one to get. In a previous “what’s in my bag” video, Kim Ji-won used AOU’s matte lip mud in shade 04, a rosewood shade with a hint of purple. It instantly brightens up your complexion even without makeup; apply a light layer for a natural look, or build it up for maximum impact.
Images from IG @aoucosmetics
Must-Buy Item 2: HAUA Ring Gua Sha
Next up is the HAUA Ring Gua Sha, which went viral after aespa’s Ningning recommended it. This ring-shaped gua sha tool is incredibly compact: toss it in your bag or keep it on your desk. Whenever you need to depuff or relax your face, slip it on and use it with serum for a massage. It’s amazingly convenient.
Images from IG @hauaskin
Must-Buy Item 3: Killit Founcealer
Killit Founcealer, an up-and-coming brand, is practically a budget godsend for creating a smoother-looking complexion. This foundation stick offers very high coverage and comes with a dedicated scraper for covering larger areas of uneven skin tone and acne marks. Its texture runs a little dry, though it’s a lifesaver for oily and acne-prone skin.
Images from IG @killit_official_us
The next time you fly to Seoul, don’t just stick to chain drugstores. Take a look around Hemeko, and you’ll find plenty of surprising treasures!
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