Korean eyeshadow is subtle yet shimmery. It’s not as heavily pigmented as Western eyeshadow, but it’s long-lasting and easy to blend.

If you love the Korean eyeshadow look, you’re in the right place. Come explore the neutrals, pastels, and glittery shades that we review below. You’re sure to find the best Korean eyeshadow palette today.

Korean eyeshadow step-by-step

There are two ways to do Korean eyeshadow.

The first is subtle and natural. It gives a hint of color that emphasizes the eyes’ beauty and contributes to a youthful appearance. The diffused, delicately pigmented Korean shadow is perfect for this purpose.

Choose a neutral shade that is slightly darker or lighter than your skin tone. You’re likely to see Korean actors with brown or peach-colored eyeshadow that’s just barely there.

Apply it to the edge of the eyelid. Don’t worry, you can put on Korean eyeshadow with either a finger or a brush. Just tap the extra off the brush to avoid fallout.

Meanwhile, Korean pop idols often go with glittery and shimmery shadow. When done correctly, it gives the eye extra depth.

Brush a light shade with shimmer or glitter over the center of the eyelid. Follow up with the same color below the lower lash line.

Lastly, apply a darker color in the outer corner of the eyelid in a V-shape pointing outward. Continue with the inner corner as well as the outer corner of the lower lash line. Blend to avoid sharp distinctions between the colors or the eyeshadow and the skin.

Wrap up with eyeliner and mascara if you wish. Keep in mind that many Koreans prefer to use brown eyeliner to avoid the harsh contrast of their eyeshadow with black liner.

Best Korean Eyeshadow Palette in 2023

Are you concerned about choosing the right mix of colors for your eyeshadow? That’s what palettes are for. We hope you find inspiration in the reviews below.

CLIO Pro Eye Shadow Palette

CLIO makes one of the most popular eyeshadow palettes. A quick glance at the selection of colors will show you the reason why. These are lustrous shades that provide subtle emphasis on all skin tones.

There are ten colors in the palette, plus a built-in mirror and a dual-ended applicator brush. One tip is perfect for precision application along the lash line and corners, and the other for brushing broad strokes along the lid.

The selection of eyeshadows includes classic matte textures, pearlescent colors, and brilliant glitters. Each one lasts throughout the day without creasing. The buttery eye shadow melts right into the skin and stays put.

Happily, CLIO also offers different complementary color selections in similar palettes.

ETUDE HOUSE Play Color Eyes

This warm-toned palette features nine colors in matte, shimmer, and glitter textures. They are described as providing a “sunset glow”. After all, these are autumn colors.

With these shadows, you can go light and natural or make your eyes pop. You can also use some of the shades as blush. Check out the item’s description for ideas on how to achieve different looks.

Did you know that using your finger to apply the jewel shades will make them last longer?

PONY EFFECT GRWM Palette

How about a dozen shades of eyeshadow in five different textures? This palette offers matte, spangle, hologram, shimmer, and glitter colors.

What’s interesting is that the matte colors are intensely pigmented just like Western makeup. But the sparkly shades are uniquely brilliant.

Users say this eyeshadow is gorgeous and has a super soft texture.

W.Lab Pocket Shadow Palette

It’s a pleasure to use velvety eyeshadow like this. There are ten shades in the palette, ranging from matte to pearly and glittery colors. Even the dark ones are buildable.

What’s more, we love that it’s made of natural ingredients. Check out the label – each shadow is packed with flower extracts. Then, the shimmer comes from minerals.

The compact also includes a double-ended flat brush.

The main complaint we heard was that the shadow didn’t wear as long as some brands.

ETUDE HOUSE PLAY COLOR EYE PALETTE (Best Loved)

The first review we did was eyeshadow from Etude House. This compact is from the same collection, but these are the fifteen Best Loved most popular shades.

Of course, they include glitter, shimmer, and matte colors, all warm tones or neutrals. No, you won’t find any blues, greens, or purples here. Instead, it’s the classic Korean eyeshadow palette.

The versatile selection is still everything you need for a quiet day at the office or an exciting night on the town.

Serseul Eyeshadow Palette

We understand that not everyone appreciates glittery eyeshadow. In that case, take a look at this selection of eleven matte colors and only one shimmer shade.

This waterproof eyeshadow palette has something for every skin tone.

Each buttery smooth color is buildable and straightforward to blend. Plus, it’s packed in a portable palette with a mirror and a dual-ended brush.

Aperire Eyeshadow Palette

Instead of purchasing individual items of Korean eye makeup, get this complete kit. It includes a nine-color palette, three applicator brushes, an eyebrow pencil, and a skin-brightening mask.

It’s handy because you can use the darkest color for contouring and some of the shades for blush. Both the shimmery and matte colors have a velvety texture.

The applicator brushes simplify putting on makeup. They have dense, soft bristles that pick up plenty of pigment. Furthermore, the texture doesn’t clump.

By the way, the brow pencil is medium-brown, perfect for light to medium skin tones. It’s extra-slim and has a spoolie brush. It was one of our picks for the best Korean eyebrow pencil.

3CE Mood Recipe Multi Eye Color Palette

We couldn’t choose between this brand’s compacts because we loved all three. Each one has nine colors. For example, the #OVERTAKE palette has warm shades ranging from chocolate to rose and peach. Some of the shades are muted and soft, while others are glittery.

All the colors are buildable and long-lasting, although not wholly fade-proof. Users seem to agree that there isn’t much need for touching up.

What’s also nice is that each color features sebum control powder. It keeps the eyeshadow from sliding off oily eyelids.

IM UNNY Color Eyes Palette

We love the names of the nine neutral colors in this palette. They include Mood Brick, Nudism, and Glam Pop.

Specifically, we’re talking about shades of pink, beige, bronze, and brown. They blend flawlessly for a gradated look. Fortunately, there are sparkly shades for highlighting the inner corners, waterline, and upper brow.

Holika Holika [Sweet Peko Edition] Peko Eye Shadow Palette

No, you’re not imagining things. There is a cute little face pressed into one of the four eyeshadows. Also, they smell like strawberries.

It’s not surprising since they come from a brand that specializes in cuteness.

The compact includes matte, shimmer, and glitter colors.

The instructions recommend a sponge applicator or a fingertip to minimize fallout. Using a finger to pat on color creates an iridescent effect.

PONY EFFECT Conceptual Eyes Quad

Here’s a four-pack of silky shades. It’s like the express edition of the most popular Korean eyeshadow colors.

Two are matte. Then, one is a frosted highlighter and the other slightly more shimmery. None are downright glittery. As one reviewer described them, they are suitable for both understated and dramatic looks.

Keep in mind that the lightest color may need touching up after a few hours. Therefore, it’s handy to have a small compact like this one that can travel with you.

SKINFOOD Choco Eyebrow Powder Cake

Yes, this is eyebrow powder with real cacao (chocolate) inside. There’s no reason you can’t use it as eyeshadow if you love milk chocolate and caramel colors. It also doubles as a contour.

Although it comes in a compact with a mirror and a tiny applicator, the brush isn’t the most ideal tool for the job.

Users say that rich shades last all day.

I’M MEME I’M Multi Cube

Stop toting around so many compacts. This one has a mirror, eyeshadow, and blush.

The four shades of shadow include glitter, shimmer, and matte colors. They are quite vibrant when compared to other Korean brands of eyeshadow. Even the blush is intense.

It’s not a shocker as it comes from a brand that that says, “Express yourself, anytime, anywhere”.

ROMAND BETTER THAN EYES MUSIC SERIES

If you’d like a more serious, subtle look or want true neutral colors, this eyeshadow palette is perfect.

Of course, there is a shimmery, silvery shade for sparkle on special occasions. But the sand, deep brown, and beige colors are appropriate for school or a day at the office.

None of the silky shades crease, cake, or fade quickly. They contain sebum control powder to blot extra oil. You don’t even need a primer to achieve a longwear effect.

KARADIUM Shining Pearl Smudging Eye Shadow Stick

It’s not a palette, but we love this eyeshadow in a stick applicator. Bring on the bling!

It has a creamy texture that blends easily then sets to a silky, shimmery finish. Just twist the stick and the bullet-shaped tip is ready to use.

The waterproof formula resists sweat and high humidity. Yet, it protects sensitive eyes and moisturizes the delicate skin there.

KAJA Moon Crystal | Sparkling Eye Pigment

It’s time for fun. Squeeze a little dab of this eyeshadow out of the tube and tap it onto your eyelid with your finger. Then, blend it with a brush or sponge. It’s crystal powder that creates the stunning shimmer effect.

The jelly texture is surprisingly lightweight and dries quickly. Choose from a variety of colors, including purple, green, and blue.

ETUDE HOUSE Mirror Holic Liquid Eyes

Do you love glitter? Then you’ve got to try this fantastic liquid eyeshadow. Your eyes have never glistened this way before.

Although it has an applicator inside the lid, you can also use your fingers to apply it. Users say it lasts all day.

There are two shades: one is barely pink, and the other has a hint of champagne.

ETUDE HOUSE Twinkle Mini Brush

Sometimes it’s a pain to apply eyeshadow with fingers if you have no place to clean them afterward. Solve the problem with this little packet of makeup brushes.

There are four tools for eyeshadow, contouring, doing eyebrows, and applying blush. Each has soft bristles that deliver the right amount of pigment.

MIZON Eye Cream

Eyeshadow draws attention to the eyes. Why not pamper the skin around them to smooth fine lines and wrinkles?

Snail mucin is excellent for regenerating and moisturizing the skin. This Korean eye cream contains 80% mucin plus niacinamide to correct discoloration. It’s a potent anti-aging formula.

Furthermore, it’s free of artificial colors and fragrances and tested for sensitive skin.

THE FACE SHOP Rice Water Bright Cleanser and Light Cleansing Oil

Protect the sensitive skin around your eyes by using the right makeup remover. This bundle comes with cleansing oil and face wash. These are what Korean women who follow the two-step cleansing routine use.

Both are based on rice water, a nutrient-rich natural solution used for centuries in the royal courts. It brightens tone and leaves the skin supple and moisturized.

Moreover, the cleansing oil doesn’t contain mineral oil. Instead, it’s based on natural plant ingredients that rapidly dissolve waterproof makeup. Massage it on dry skin to remove eyeshadow, mascara, etc.

Once you add lukewarm water, the oil emulsifies. Subsequently, the oil cleanser rinses clean with no residue.

To finish washing, you can use the foaming cleanser if you desire.

Conclusion

We’re pleased you dropped by to see reviews of the best Korean eyeshadows. There are so many attractive palettes that there’s a match for every skin tone.

The eyeshadow is buildable and long-lasting. In many cases, it has oil-control ingredients so that you don’t even need to wear a primer.

What’s more, Korean makeup is typically formulated for sensitive skin. Most brands avoid parabens and other undesirable ingredients.

We hope you’re delighted with your new makeup. Feel free to tell us about it in the comments below.