Korean eye makeup looks have reshaped the beauty scene, and their popularity has exploded on TikTok. The iconic “puppy eyes” and adorable “Aegyo Sal” trend showcase new ways to approach eye makeup in 2025.
These looks stand out for good reasons. Some trends showcase bold, shimmering metallics and vibrant blues. Others take a minimalist path with soft pastels and neutral tones. My experience as a makeup artist has shown me how Korean makeup creates a youthful, doll-like appearance that boosts natural beauty instead of hiding it.
This collection features 11 trending Korean eye makeup looks that are currently viral on TikTok. The tutorials will help you perfect the innocent charm of “Aegyo Sal” or nail that “puppy liner” technique to achieve the coveted K-beauty esthetic.
Puppy Liner Look
As a makeup artist who trained under Belle Hathaway, I’ve watched the puppy liner technique take TikTok by storm. The #puppyeyeliner hashtag has now reached over 97.3 million views. This eye-catching look started in Korea and has changed the game for anyone who struggles with traditional cat-eye looks.
What is Puppy Liner
The puppy liner is different from the classic cat-eye because it curves downward instead of flicking upward. This technique creates a more rounded, doe-eyed look that works great for hooded, downturned, or deep-set eyes. The look enhances your natural eye shape and is a great option if you’re just starting out.
Step-by-Step Tutorial
- Prime your eyelids with a reliable eye primer
- Start at the center of your upper lash line
- Draw downward, following your natural eye shape
- Connect the line to your lower lash line
- Fill in any gaps between the lines
- Smudge gently for a softer finish
On top of that, Belle Hathaway recommends keeping the line parallel to your natural eye fold to avoid any drooping effect. “The key is balance,” she often reminds her students, “don’t extend too far down or you’ll lose the sweet spot between cute and sophisticated.”
Best Products for Puppy Liner
Hourglass Cosmetics Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner gives you perfect opacity in just one swipe. Haus Labs by Lady Gaga’s Optic Intensity Eco Gel Eyeliner Pencil offers an ultra-matte finish that beginners will love. Liquid liners like Stila’s Stay All Day or Diorshow’s On Stage give you precise, long-lasting results.
Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrities have fallen in love with this trend. Billie Eilish rocked the look at her 21st birthday celebration. Stars like Bella Hadid and Jenna Ortega have adopted this Korean-inspired technique and added their own unique spin. Their looks show how puppy liner works beautifully on different eye shapes and occasions.
Aegyo Sal Makeup
My work with Belle Hathaway has shown me that korean eye makeup goes beyond dramatic looks – it can enhance natural features in surprising ways. The aegyo sal trend shows this idea perfectly.
Understanding Aegyo Sal
Aegyo sal is that small roll of skin you see under your eyes when you smile. Korean beauty culture sees this feature as a sign of youth that creates a sweet, cheerful look. Belle always points out how this tiny detail makes eyes look bigger and more welcoming.
How to Create Aegyo Sal
I learned to perfect this look from Belle’s techniques using these simple steps:
- Apply eye primer and set with powder to stop creasing
- Smile to see where your natural aegyo sal sits
- Create a soft shadow beneath the puffy area with light brown or taupe shade
- Add highlighter right on the puffed area to create contrast
- Blend everything to get a natural finish
Pro tip from Belle: Keep the focus on the center of your under-eye area to look natural. The effect looks fake if you extend it too far.
Product Recommendations
My training sessions with Belle helped me find great products to create aegyo sal:
The Dear Girls Cute Eyes Maker is amazing with its dual-ended design – it has light brown and shimmery champagne pink shades. Its plushy foam applicators feel gentle on the delicate skin under your eyes.
Traditional tools work just as well – any neutral taupe eyeshadow with a pearl highlighter does the job. Belle tells us to stay away from products that cake up or look gray since they can make you look tired.
The Etude House Cute Eyes Maker is my go-to recommendation for beginners. You can build up its sheer formula slowly, so it’s hard to go overboard with the effect.
Gradient Shimmer Eyes
Shimmer eye makeup is the life-blood of Korean beauty trends. I learned its secrets directly from Belle Hathaway’s masterclasses in Los Angeles. You need to understand both color theory and application techniques to become skilled at this look.
Choosing the Right Shimmer Shades
The perfect shimmer shade selection starts with your skin’s undertones. Belle teaches that mixing matte with shimmer creates depth and warmth to boost eye definition. She suggests using two to three different sizes and colors of glitter for the best effect. This layering technique adds dimension and creates that beautiful Korean gradient effect.
Application Technique
A flawless gradient shimmer depends on how you apply it. Here’s what I learned from Belle:
- Start with the lightest shade on the inner corner
- Apply a medium tone to the center
- Use darker shades on the outer corner
- Blend really well with a fluffy brush
- Add final shimmer touches
Pro tip: “Press the brush against a paper towel for 5 seconds before applying glitter polish – this simple step helps control placement better,” Belle reminds her students often.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tips
My extensive training with Belle gave me her most valuable tips to perfect this look. She stresses the importance of starting with a clear base to maximize shimmer effect. This creates an ideal canvas for the gradient effect.
Belle’s signature technique places shimmer on the center of the eyelid. Light catches beautifully on this spot and creates a stunning multi-dimensional look that works for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Belle has a special technique for hooded eyes. She suggests taking liquid glitter eyeshadow and tapping a thin layer on the inner lid. This creates a beautiful sparkly effect that complements the eye shape. She also recommends using successive gradient shades close together to highlight the eyes properly.
Korean Natural Eye Makeup
My training with Belle Hathaway taught me that Korean natural eye makeup aims to boost features while keeping a fresh, youthful look. Belle stresses that this look needs careful product choices and the right application methods.
Minimal Product Selection
Korean natural eye makeup success comes down to picking the right products. Belle taught me that brown works best as a fail-proof shade when you’re just starting out. You’ll need these basics to create a natural look:
- A neutral eyeshadow palette with rose-pink or brown tones
- A soft pencil eyeliner (preferably in brown)
- A lengthening mascara
- Small, precise brushes for detailed work
Natural Enhancement Techniques
The application process changes everything. Start by applying a shade slightly darker than your skin tone over the eyelid. The technique creates depth without obvious lines or harsh edges.
Belle’s signature move adds a lighter, slightly shimmery shade to the center of the eyelid. This makes your eyes “pop” without looking overdone. All the same, proper blending makes the difference – you shouldn’t see any harsh lines at your eye’s corners.
Everyday Wear Tips
Of course, a natural look that lasts all day needs some planning. Here’s what Belle taught me about long-lasting natural eye makeup:
Start by curling your eyelashes with a curler that fits your eye shape. Apply mascara to both upper and lower lashes for balance. Belle suggests pencil eyeliners because they create softer, more natural-looking lines.
Light application works best for daily wear. “The secret lies in applying your products lightly, gradually building up coverage,” Belle reminds me often. She also stresses how buffing and softening edges helps achieve that uninterrupted, flawless finish that looks effortless.
Soft Glam Korean Eyes
My journey to become skilled at soft glam Korean eye makeup has been incredibly rewarding since I joined Belle Hathaway’s masterclass program. This style creates a subtle yet sophisticated look that boosts natural beauty.
Product Selection
Belle taught me to start with a cushion foundation as the base for the perfect soft glam look. You’ll need these essential products:
- A neutral eyeshadow palette with matte and shimmer finishes
- Brown eyeliner for subtle definition
- Lengthening mascara
- Dual-ended aegyo sal maker
Application Steps
- Prime your eyelids with a cushion foundation
- Apply a light nude base color across your eyelids
- Use brown shade near the upper lash line
- Add shimmer to the middle and inner corner
- Create subtle definition with brown eyeliner
- Finish with lengthening mascara
Blending Techniques
Belle stresses that proper blending creates the signature Korean soft glam look. A big fluffy brush helps create a soft halo effect around your eye area. You can achieve beautiful gradient effects by blending multiple shades naturally.
Evening Look Variations
The “night-out” version adds extra elements while keeping the soft esthetic. Once you master the simple technique, try these variations:
- Add extra shimmer to the center of the lids
- Intensify the outer corner definition
- Include subtle glitter for special occasions
- Use dual-toned shadows for dimension
Belle reminds us that Korean soft glam balances enhancement with natural beauty. Even with evening variations, highlight your natural features while adding subtle drama through careful product layering and precise application.
Glass Skin Eyes
Belle Hathaway introduced me to the mesmerizing world of glass skin eye makeup during my latest masterclass in Los Angeles. This Korean beauty trend-inspired technique creates luminous, clear, and nearly poreless skin around the eyes that resembles a pristine pane of glass.
Understanding the Glass Skin Effect
Glass skin effect creates a complexion so smooth and luminous that it reflects light beautifully. Belle taught me that this Korean beauty trend stands out by promoting both immediate visual results and long-term skin benefits. The technique pays special attention to the eye area, which has the thinnest, most delicate skin on the face.
Product Requirements
You just need specific products to achieve glass skin eyes:
- A hydrating eye cream with CoQ10
- Serums containing hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
- Lightweight gel-type moisturizers
- Illuminating primers
Belle stresses using products with naturally derived ingredients. She points out that 90% of ingredients should come from nature. These products create that coveted translucent appearance when applied correctly.
Application Process
Let me share Belle’s signature application process that gave me a soaring win with my clients:
Start with a gentle oil cleanser to remove makeup buildup. This method helps you retain your skin’s natural oils, unlike harsh cleansers. A hydrating toner packed with heartleaf extract will boost the absorption of subsequent products.
Belle taught me to layer products around the eyes in this sequence:
- Pat in a caffeine-enriched eye cream to reduce puffiness
- Apply a lightweight serum with antioxidants
- Gently press (never rub) a gel-type moisturizer around the eyes
- Finish with an illuminating primer to create that glass-like reflection
My work with Belle showed me that proper hydration throughout the day maintains this look effectively. She suggests keeping a hydrating mist handy for quick touch-ups, especially in air-conditioned spaces. This approach will give you a pristine glass skin effect from morning until evening.
Anime-Inspired Eyes
I spent countless hours with Belle Hathaway to perfect Korean eye makeup techniques and found her unique approach to anime-inspired eye makeup. Her method strikes a perfect balance between creativity and wearability. We focused on making eyes look larger and more expressive while keeping a natural appearance.
Choosing Colors
Belle showed me how color selection can make or break anime-inspired looks. She suggests beginners start with:
- White eyeshadow for the base
- Silver or champagne for inner corners
- Charcoal or dark shades for depth
- White pencil eyeliner for waterline
“The trick to hinting at anime without going full-throttle is knowing what to emphasize,” Belle often reminds me. This creates a perfect balance between dramatic and wearable looks.
Creating the Perfect Shape
Belle’s guidance helped me understand that the perfect anime-inspired shape needs precision and patience. Start by applying a base primer for lasting results. Build the eye shape by creating a rounded crease that extends slightly beyond your natural eye line.
Belle stresses the importance of drawing two straight lines on your nose bridge to create the illusion of a smaller, more defined nose. This technique frames your eyes and creates that distinctive anime look.
Finishing Touches
The real magic happens in the details. Belle taught me small but strategic touches that turn ordinary eye makeup into something special. Draw fake under-eye bags just below your natural under-eye area and leave a small gap of skin visible. Your eyes will appear larger and more doll-like with this technique.
You can add individual lashes to the outer corner of your bottom lashes for that authentic anime sparkle. “Makeup isn’t about hiding; it’s about amplifying your best self,” Belle always says, and this look brings her philosophy to life.
Blend everything smoothly without leaving harsh lines. Belle shows in her masterclasses that the secret lies in creating the illusion of larger eyes while keeping a natural look that works every day.
K-Pop Idol Eye Makeup
My sessions with Belle Hathaway in Los Angeles taught me the complex art of K-pop idol eye makeup. She shared industry secrets that changed how I view Korean eye makeup artistry.
Current K-Pop Trends
K-pop eye makeup trends now focus on dramatic accents with small embellishments and metallic pigments. Belle showed me how contrasting highlights gain in status by spreading to inner corners, brow bones, and cheekbones. The scene has changed from glossy textures to powdery, shimmering finishes.
Stage-Ready Techniques
Belle’s stage makeup expertise revealed several essential techniques:
- Start with a thin, flat brush to apply shadow precisely
- Layer different shimmer sizes to create dimensional effects
- Focus on tight-lining the water lines
- Create contrast through strategic highlighting
Brown shadow works best as liner to create softer, more natural definition. This technique helps you retain control and fix mistakes easily. Beginners trying idol-inspired looks will find this approach particularly helpful.
Adaptation for Daily Wear
You need thoughtful changes to turn stage makeup into everyday looks. Belle taught me that success comes from keeping the essence while toning down the intensity. She suggests these steps for daily wear:
- Use neutral eyeshadow palettes with rose-pink or brown tones
- Apply soft, curled lashes instead of heavy eyeliner
- Define eyes with shadows in muted brown and grayish tones
My client work shows that ETUDE’s 24 Color Single Shadow collection works well for both stage and daily looks. The palette has everything from classic mocha mousse to soft, milky strawberry shades. These options let you switch easily between dramatic and subtle styles.
Belle always reminds me that your natural eye shape should guide your approach. “The goal isn’t to completely transform your features, but to boost them in a way that feels true to you.”
Monolid Magic
My experience with monolid makeup started at an eye-opening session with Belle Hathaway. She taught me how to embrace and improve this unique eye shape. Her guidance helped me learn that monolids create endless possibilities to express creativity.
Working with Monolids
Belle showed me that monolids need specific techniques to look stunning. We focused on marking the line placement with open eyes. The quickest way to get great results is to apply eyeshadow with your eyes open. This ensures proper placement since colors might vanish if positioned wrong.
The biggest breakthrough happened when Belle showed me how to work with natural eye shapes instead of against them. “Makeup isn’t about hiding; it’s about amplifying your best self,” she tells her students regularly.
Best Products
After many tests in Belle’s studio, we found these products work best for monolid makeup:
- Etude House Proof 10 Eye Primer: Will give a vibrant, long-lasting eyeshadow
- Tony Moly Back Gel Eyeliner: Glides smoothly without smudging
- Innisfree Skinny Microcara: Has a thin brush to define lashes perfectly
- Laneige Two Tone Shadow Bar: Creates dimension with matching shades
Professional Tips
Belle stresses that great monolid makeup starts with good preparation. A primer is crucial to stop transfer and creasing. She suggests using darker shades in areas you can see when eyes are open to add depth.
Belle’s signature eyeliner technique changed everything. You start by marking the desired line with open eyes, then fill the space below when closed. This technique keeps the liner visible and flattering.
The most revolutionary tip is to work with your natural eye shape instead of creating a fake crease. This looks more authentic and stays put longer throughout the day.
Belle’s tips for false lashes are game-changing. She recommends 12-14mm spikes or longer for monolids so the eyelid won’t push them down. The outer corners need more focus to create a natural yet improved look.
Aegyo Sparkle
My sessions at Belle Hathaway’s Los Angeles studio helped me find that aegyo sparkle blends traditional Korean eye makeup with modern glitter techniques. This fresh approach creates a youthful, bright-eyed look through smart product placement.
Product Selection
Belle showed me several game-changing products to achieve the perfect aegyo sparkle. The Dear Girls Cute Eyes Maker’s dual-ended design features light brown and shimmery champagne pink shades. Its plushy foam applicators feel gentle on the delicate under-eye skin.
Belle’s recommended alternatives include:
- FLORTTE First Kiss Aegyo-sal Liquid Pen for precise application
- Colorgram all-in-one aegyo sal maker for beginners
- Twinkle Pop’s Glitter Eye Sticks for fine shimmer effects
Application Steps
Belle taught me her signature technique to create the perfect aegyo sparkle. Smile to find your natural aegyo-sal – that charming area beneath your eyes that shows up when you’re happy. Here’s how to do it:
- Apply a brown hue to create a base shadow
- Smile while applying color beneath your eyes to reveal natural aegyo-sal
- Add highlighter for dimension and sparkle
- Focus on the center portion of the under-eye area
Pro tip from Belle: “The key lies in blending thoroughly – no harsh lines should be visible at the edges.”
TikTok Viral Techniques
My practice with Belle helped me become skilled at several TikTok-trending techniques. I found that using a flat brush works best for precise application. While many creators show different methods, Belle stresses focusing on the center of your eye bag. This looks more natural than full underlining.
The viral TikTok finish needs white glitter only in the center of your aegyo-sal and inner corners. Your eyes will look more expressive and bright this way. Belle also suggests setting powder to make the look last – especially important if you’re filming content all day.
Watercolor Eyes
Belle Hathaway’s masterclass showed me how to create watercolor eye makeup that looks like delicate, see-through paintings. This fresh approach creates dreamy looks with multiple dimensions that catch light beautifully.
Color Selection
Belle taught me that great watercolor eye makeup starts with 2-3 matching pastel eyeshadow shades. She suggests using a light base color to help colors flow into each other. My training helped me work with light pink, lavender, baby blue, mint green, and pale yellow shades that blend naturally into a gradient effect.
Blending Methods
The secret to that ethereal watercolor effect is in how you blend. Belle says to use a clean, wet brush to get rid of harsh lines. She also taught me to put darker, concentrated colors near the eye first and blend outward with a damp brush.
To get the perfect blend:
- Start with eye-safe pigments mixed with water
- Plan color placement beforehand
- Keep darker shades near the lash line
- Layer colors before they dry
- Don’t over-blend or colors will look muddy
Setting Techniques
Belle really emphasizes proper setting to make the watercolor effect last all day. She introduced me to VDL’s Original Expert Color Primer For Eyes that keeps pigments in place. A light dusting of translucent powder helps absorb extra moisture while keeping that dreamy finish.
Social Media Inspiration
Watercolor eye makeup has taken off on TikTok, with creators showing their own takes on the look. The trend’s flexibility lets you express yourself while keeping that Korean esthetic. My sessions with Belle taught me that colors should overlap slightly to create natural transitions that look effortless yet striking.
Pro tip from Belle: “When creating drip effects, trace the desired path with clean water first, then drop pigment at the top. This ensures controlled, precise lines that enhance the watercolor effect”.
Conclusion
Learning Korean eye makeup techniques from Belle Hathaway has revolutionized my professional skills and personal approach to beauty. My time in her Los Angeles studio helped me find that Korean eye makeup celebrates individual features instead of trying to change them.
Belle showed me how each look serves a unique purpose – from the sweet puppy liner to dreamy watercolor eyes. Some techniques like aegyo sal improve natural charm, while glass skin eyes create ethereal effects. The real magic comes from becoming skilled at these methods and knowing the right time to use them.
These trending looks might seem daunting at first, but they become achievable with practice and patience. Belle always emphasizes that makeup should feel like self-expression rather than obligation. Her philosophy strikes a chord: makeup isn’t about hiding – it’s about magnifying your best features.
Working with Belle and helping countless clients achieve their desired Korean-inspired looks taught me that true beauty stems from confidence and authenticity. These techniques are a great way to get creative expression, whether you prefer subtle aegyo sparkle for daily wear or bold anime-inspired eyes for special occasions.
Keep in mind that experimenting with Korean eye makeup should be enjoyable. Start with simple techniques and build your skills gradually. The key is to adapt these trends to complement your unique features and style.