[Korean Culture & Language] Hair Rollers in Public

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In most Western countries, checking oneself in a mirror or applying makeup in public settings is considered disrespectful, especially if you’re at a business dinner or with people you don’t know very well. 

Photo by Chris Benson on Unsplash

Even though Koreans value etiquette as much as Westerners do, using cosmetics in public is more acceptable in Korea. If you've ever visited Korea, you would have definitely seen well-dressed people applying makeup in subways and buses. To be completely honest, I don't think it's a horrible idea. You save time by applying makeup on your way to a meeting, date, or social activity. 

Same for the velcro rollers(헤어롤 or 구르프). You would see people wearing these plastic cylinders everywhere in Korea – at cafes, libraries, and on public transportation. 

https://www.ssg.com/

Even though some people still believe that it’s impolite or strange to wear them in public, the majority of young people do not. They wear them to maintain the perfect curl in their bangs before attending an event or meeting. They are not concerned about what others think of them because they believe that it’s more important to look good in front of the people they care about. Wearing them on the way also saves time. 

These 헤어롤s and 구르프s come in different sizes and shapes.

Have you ever tried wearing them? When you have a date right after work, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to use a 헤어롤 while working at your office.

 

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