​Everyone wishes to present themselves beautifully. This desire has long been expressed through clothing, jewelry, hairstyles, and cosmetics. Korea, China, and Japan have a long history of exchange, which has also influenced the cosmetic culture in each of these countries. In ancient times, pale skin, dark eyebrows, and rosy cheeks and lips were considered the ideal beauty for women. To achieve this, the three countries developed white face powder and red rouge, creating their own distinct makeup styles based on their unique cultures.

​In Korea, women preferred natural makeup highlighting clear and clean skin. In China, women favored bright and bold makeup, while in Japan, women used white face powder liberally to create a pale complexion. In this way, the three countries established unique makeup traditions reflecting their sociocultural backgrounds and ideals of beauty.

This exhibition features cosmetic boxes, bronze mirrors, and hair ornaments carefully selected from the Coreana Cosmetics Museum collection. It offers an opportunity to deepen our understanding of these distinct cultures and discover what true beauty means to us, from the past to the present.

Supported by Coreana Cosmetics, Co., Ltd.