If you’re into K-pop or K-beauty, you’ve probably seen IVE’s Wonyoung and thought: “How does her makeup always look so flawless?”
Her style has basically become the blueprint for the K-pop idol makeup look – glassy skin, sparkly eyes, rosy cheeks, and glossy lips. It’s sweet, glowy, and totally camera-ready.
The best part? You don’t need to be on stage to pull it off. Here’s a step-by-step K-beauty makeup routine inspired by that iconic idol vibe.
1️⃣ Base Makeup – The Idol Glow
K-pop idols are known for their glass skin look – hydrated, fresh, and dewy without being cakey.
Always start with heavy hydration (a sleeping mask or rich cream overnight works wonders).
Use a cushion foundation or lightweight base, applying in thin layers.
Add a soft highlighter on the high points of your face (cheekbones, nose bridge, T-zone).
👉 Try products like Laneige Water Sleeping Mask or any lightweight cushion foundation for that K-beauty glow.
2️⃣ Eye Makeup – Shimmery “Doe Eyes” ✨
The eye look is what makes idol makeup instantly recognizable. Think soft colors with a pop of sparkle.
Use coral or pink shadows as your base.
Add a liquid glitter eyeshadow to the center of your lids and along the aegyo-sal (the little under-eye crease) for a youthful sparkle.
Keep eyeliner thin and natural, flicking it just slightly for a subtle lift.
Finish with long, curled lashes for a wide-eyed effect.
👉 Popular picks include Clio Shade & Shadow Palettes, Holika Holika eye palettes, Bobbi Brown Taupe eyeshadow for subtle shading, or Peripera Ink Black Mascara for lashes.
3️⃣ Blush – The Rosy Glow
Idol makeup always looks fresh and lively thanks to a soft wash of blush.
Stick with pink or coral tones placed on the apples of your cheeks.
Blend it out for a soft, doll-like finish.
👉 Go for blushes like Kylie Cosmetics Winter Kissed or Clinique Cheek Pop (Ballerina Pop) for that natural idol flush.
4️⃣ Lips – Glossy Gradient Lips 💋
This is the ultimate K-beauty signature: gradient lips that look soft, youthful, and plump.
Apply a brighter tint (like cherry or rose) to the inner part of your lips.
Blend outward with a lighter tint or balm so it fades naturally.
Top with a glossy lip plumper for extra shine.
👉 Fan favorites: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Cream (Fenty Glow) or K-beauty staples like rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint.
5️⃣ Highlight & Tools
It’s the little details that make the idol look so polished.
Use a glow balm or cream highlighter for that glassy finish.
Don’t forget your makeup puff for cushion foundation (a K-beauty must-have).
A cute face-wash headband is perfect for prepping and keeps your hair out of the way.
👉 Try items like Hince Radiance Balm, a soft puff applicator, and a fluffy headband for easy application.
✅ Why This Look Is So Popular
The reason this style went viral? It’s youthful, fresh, and approachable while still looking glam under bright lights.
The shimmer makes your eyes pop on camera, the blush adds playful charm, and the gradient lips feel very “K-pop idol stage-ready.”
No wonder beauty influencers and fans keep recreating it—it’s the perfect mix of cute and elegant.
✨ Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be a K-pop star to rock the idol makeup look. With the right products and a few easy tricks, you can nail that IVE Wonyoung inspired K-beauty routine at home.