When it comes to innovation in skincare, South Korea is the global hub. K-Beauty is responsible for the world’s best sunscreens (Beauty of Joseon is an MC fave), the country is behind the infamous salmon sperm facial (and PDRN topical treatments), and South Korean products oftentimes run circles around US counterparts that treat redness, uneven tone, and texture. So when I found myself in Seoul this time last year, it only seemed appropriate to make a trip to Olive Young—a.k.a. the South Korean version of Sephora—and purchase well over $400 worth of skincare. (Yes, I did need to buy an additional suitcase to get it home.)
Over the past 12 months, I’ve worked through almost all of the products—just in time for Olive Young to make it to NYC. The good news: I can now restock all my favorites and tell you which products are worth your money. Let’s get into it.
