Korean body care is often multi-step and based on regular cleansing, massage, and hydration—but it also holds a deeper meaning. In Korea, traditional public bathhouses and saunas called Jjimjilbang (찜질방) are very popular. They are not just places for hygiene but serve as social and rejuvenating rituals. These facilities typically include hot pools, saunas with varying temperatures and humidity levels, and rooms made of salt, jade, or filled with herbs.
It’s also worth mentioning the traditional Seshin (세신) body scrub, usually performed manually by a specialist. After the treatment, the skin becomes smooth, and blood circulation is stimulated.
Koreans also frequently enjoy herbal baths, often using ingredients like mugwort, ginseng, and pine needles, which are known for their cleansing and energizing properties. Body skincare is taken very seriously in Korea, with daily use of body lotions, oils, and essences—similar to facial skincare routines.
In Korean society, the scalp is treated just as seriously as the facial skin. Koreans eagerly use gentle herbal shampoos, such as those with mint, ginseng, or camellia, along with various scalp scrubs (at least once a week) to remove dead skin cells and unclog hair follicles. To moisturize, improve microcirculation, and prevent hair loss, they use a variety of scalp tonics and ampoules. At home, it’s common to use silicone brushes and practice daily scalp brushing, which acts like an acupressure massage and aids in detoxifying the scalp. These treatments are part of the everyday routine in Korean society.
Health in Korea is more than the absence of disease—it's about maintaining a constant balance between body, mind, and environment.
What do Koreans eat and do to live longer?
Their daily diet is primarily plant-based and centered around fermentation. A very popular dish is kimchi (fermented cabbage with spices), which is a rich source of probiotics. Koreans also enjoy broth-based soups (such as bone broth or seaweed soups). They limit saturated fats and sugars in their cuisine. Additionally, their diet is often enriched with herbs and medicinal infusions. Ginseng is a cornerstone of Korean traditional medicine. Combined with omija (Schisandra berry), it supports the immune system, relieves stress and anxiety, and boosts memory and concentration. Barley tea, jujube (Korean dates), and ginger tea are also consumed daily.
Regular physical activity is very important to Koreans. Elderly people often practice tai chi, go for mountain walks, and do stretching exercises. Younger generations favor fitness, hiking, and yoga.
Korea has a well-developed system of traditional medicine (Hanbang), which includes herbal remedies, acupuncture, massage, and herbal baths. Clinics known as Hanuiwon are popular—they combine Western diagnostics with traditional healing practices.
In Korea, self-care is not a luxury—it’s a responsibility to oneself and to loved ones. From childhood, people are taught to care for their body, skin, and health as a sign of respect for life. Koreans believe that morning and evening skincare rituals are sacred. Attention to appearance is not considered vanity, but rather a reflection of a culture of cleanliness and aesthetics. Relaxation and sleep are seen as essential parts of a healthy lifestyle, not signs of laziness.
Korean skincare is more than just cosmetics—it’s a lifestyle that merges nature, modern science, and spirituality. It represents the harmony of body and mind, deeply rooted in tradition while remaining open to the future. Europe is increasingly embracing these practices—not just because they’re trendy, but because they are authentic and effective.
Log in with Google