Why is everyone talking about Korean sunscreen (and which ones to try this summer)

If there’s one step in your skincare routine you should never skip—no matter the season—it’s sunscreen. And when it comes to SPF, Korean skincare has quietly (but confidently) taken the global spotlight. Whether you’re deep into the 10-step K-beauty routine or just here for the glow, Korean sunscreens are stealing hearts (and skincare shelves) for good reason.

It feels like skincare, not sunscreen

Korean sunscreens are famously lightweight, fast-absorbing, and made to actually be worn daily. No chalky white cast, no greasy residue, and no fighting with your foundation. Korean sunscreens do amazing with silky textures that glides on well and leaves your skin feeling hydrated and protected. 

It protects and treats 

It’s not just about texture, but its also about its ingredients. Korean SPF formulations often feature high broad-spectrum protection (look out for SPF50+ and PA++++ ratings), all while packing skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide (brightening), centella asiatica (soothing), and hyaluronic acid (hydrating). 

Basically, you’re getting sun protection and skincare benefits in one product.

Best for all skin types

Whether you’ve got dry, oily, combo, or sensitive skin, there’s a Korean sunscreen that’s basically made for you. Hydrating formulas with hyaluronic acid are great for dry skin, gel-like or matte finishes work wonders for oily types, and non-comedogenic options are safe for acne-prone or combo skin.

How to wear your sunscreen?

Sunscreen should always be the last step in your morning skincare routine—right after moisturizer, and before any makeup. Think of it as your skin’s final layer of protection.

To get the full benefit, make sure you’re using enough: about two fingers’ length (index + middle) is the standard amount for your face and neck.

If you’re using a chemical sunscreen (which most Korean sunscreens are), give it 15–20 minutes to absorb before heading outside. This allows the UV filters to activate properly. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, work immediately—but they’re less common in K-beauty.

Reapplication is key. All sunscreens—yes, even the fancy ones—need to be reapplied every 2 hours, especially if you’re sweating, swimming, or spending time outdoors.

The good news? Korean sunscreens are designed to feel more like skincare, so reapplying doesn’t feel heavy or sticky. If you wear makeup, opt for a stick, cushion, or spray formula to top up your protection throughout the day.

And don’t skip sunscreen just because it’s cloudy or you’re staying indoors—UVA rays still pass through windows and can contribute to skin aging. Daily sunscreen is a must, rain or shine.

Our Seoul Beauty Shop SPF picks for your 2025 summer

We tried them all and these are the ones we keep reaching for:

ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen: Soothing, hydrating, and gives you that fresh, glass-skin look. No stickiness, just glow.

DR CEURACLE Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun SPF50+ PA++++ (50ml): A deeply hydrating, creamy formula packed with hyaluronic acid. Ideal for dry or dehydrated skin that needs extra moisture and bounce.

HAMEL Vegan Aqua Glow Sun Serum (50ml): A vegan-friendly sun serum that leaves your skin looking dewy and radiant. Lightweight and perfect for layering under makeup.