5 Best Korean Eyeshadow Palettes Of 2024 Compared And Reviewed

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a small commission at no cost for you, if you purchase through these links.

Are you looking for the best Korean eyeshadow palettes to buy? You are in the right place!

In this article, I’ve condensed years of experience and tests to review the Korean eyeshadows that every beauty lover should have at home.

What sets Korean eyeshadow palettes apart is their range of innovative textures — from lush mattes to dazzling shimmers and unique, creamy metallics.

The shades you’ll find in Korean palettes are more than just colors; they’re a narrative of Korean culture, influenced by the country’s natural landscapes, seasons, and even traditional fashion. These hues tend to veer towards the softer, more muted end of the spectrum, making them incredibly versatile for everything from a subtle daytime look to an understated yet sophisticated evening appearance. This flexibility is what gives Korean eyeshadows their universal appeal.

I aim to give you a comprehensive guide that’s informative and easy to navigate, whether you’re new to K-Beauty or looking to expand your collection. I’ll dissect the best offerings in the market, breaking down their features from color selections to formula quality. Additionally, I’ll equip you with practical tips for application and ideas on how to pair these eyeshadows with other products, enhancing your overall makeup game.

Best Korean Eyeshadow Palette to Buy

This is my curated list of the best Korean eyeshadow palettes that allow you to embrace the essence of Korean beauty trends. Whether you’re a fan of understated, natural looks or aiming for bold, artistic statements, my selection promises to cater to every style and preference. Join me as I explore these must-have palettes, each promising to be a delightful addition to your makeup collection.

Etude House Play Color Eyes Palette

Available in different colors, each of these palettes offers an impressive array of shades, ranging from soft, delicate pastels to deeper, rich hues, perfect for crafting a multitude of looks. The textures in this palette are noteworthy, featuring a blend of buttery mattes, shimmering satins, and high-impact metallics, all of which deliver smooth, even application and impressive color payoff.

What’s particularly striking about the Etude House palette is its versatility. Whether you want to create a subtle, everyday look, a soft, romantic eye, or a more dramatic evening makeup, Etude covers you. Each shade is carefully selected to complement one another, allowing for seamless blending and the ability to mix and match colors creatively.

Who is this for:

• Makeup enthusiasts are looking for versatile, everyday wear colors
• Those who love experimenting with different looks, from natural to more dramatic
• K-Beauty fans or anyone wanting to explore Korean makeup styles
• Beginners and experts alike who appreciate easy-to-blend, pigmented shadows

Why it’s good:

• Wide range of colors suitable for various occasions and moods
• High-quality, long-lasting formula ensuring all-day wear
• The gentle formula is suitable even for sensitive eyes
• Provides both matte and shimmer finishes for complete versatility

Main strengths:

• Exceptional color variety catering to different styles and preferences.
• Great blendability and pigmentation for easy application.
• Compact and travel-friendly packaging, ideal for on-the-go touch-ups.
• Consistent with the renowned quality and innovation of Etude House products.

Peach C Soft Mood Eyeshadow Palette

The Peach C Soft Mood Eyeshadow Palette is a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their makeup collection with a palette that not only delivers performance and quality but also embodies the essence of modern, understated elegance in K-Beauty.

This palette is designed to encapsulate a gentle, romantic vibe with its selection of warm, peachy tones, complemented by soft browns and subtle pinks. The texture of the eyeshadows in this palette is noteworthy, offering a creamy, almost velvety feel, ensuring each color glides onto the eyelid with ease and provides a blendable, buildable coverage.

Ideal for creating looks that range from a barely-there, natural glow to a more defined, peachy keen eye, this palette strikes a beautiful balance between everyday usability and the pursuit of a soft, dreamy aesthetic. The matte shades are perfect for a smooth base or subtle definition, while the shimmers add just the right touch of sparkle for a fresh, youthful look.

Who is this for:

• Lovers of natural and soft makeup looks.
• Those who prefer warm, peachy, and pink-toned eyeshadows.
• Anyone from makeup beginners to professionals seeking a high-quality, easy-to-work-with palette.
• Suitable for those who appreciate makeup that can create both subtle and moderately glam looks.

Why it’s good:

• The harmonious color story is ideal for a range of skin tones and occasions.
• Silky-smooth texture and easy-to-blend formula.
• The shades are well-pigmented, offering both a subtle wash of color and the option for a bolder look.
• Durable packaging with a mirror, perfect for touch-ups and travel.

Main strengths:

• The versatile mix of mattes and shimmers for creating diverse looks.
• Long-lasting wear with minimal fallout.
• Universally flattering shades that cater to various moods and preferences.
• The palette’s focus on quality and cohesion makes it a standout in everyday beauty routines.

CLIO Pro Eye Palette – 14 Types

The CLIO Pro Eye Palette series is an outstanding choice for anyone passionate about eyeshadow, from the novice makeup user to the seasoned pro. With its vast selection of colors and finishes, high-quality formula, and chic packaging, each palette is a valuable addition to any makeup collection, offering the tools to express your creativity and style through your eyes.

Available in an impressive range of 14 different types, this palette series caters to every imaginable preference and occasion. Each palette in the series features a meticulously curated selection of colors – from rich, deep hues perfect for a bold, dramatic look to soft, subtle shades ideal for everyday wear.

What sets the CLIO Pro Eye Palette apart is the premium quality of its shadows. The formula is expertly crafted for a smooth, easy-to-blend application, with both the matte and shimmer shades providing excellent color payoff. These palettes are not just about color; they are about creating textures and dimensions on the eyes. Whether it’s a satiny smooth matte, a dazzling shimmer, or an intense metallic, each finish is designed to help create a sophisticated, multi-dimensional look.

Who is this for:

• Makeup enthusiasts looking for a high-quality palette with a variety of color options.
• Individuals who enjoy creating different eye makeup looks, from subtle to bold.
• Professional makeup artists seeking reliable, versatile, and pigment-rich eyeshadows.
• Anyone who loves to experiment with different textures and finishes.

Why it’s good:

• Wide range of palettes allows for endless creative possibilities.
• High-quality formula ensuring easy application and long-lasting wear.
• Each palette contains a mix of finishes, from mattes to shimmers and metallics, to suit different moods and styles.
• The sleek, elegant packaging is both practical and attractive.

Main strengths:

• Diverse color range catering to every skin tone and personal style.
• Exceptional pigmentation and blendability of shadows.
• Durable and travel-friendly packaging, ideal for makeup on the go.
• Renowned CLIO brand quality, trusted by makeup professionals and enthusiasts alike.

HOLIKA HOLIKA – Piece Matching 12 Shadow Palette

The HOLIKA HOLIKA Piece Matching 12 Shadow Palette is an excellent choice for anyone who values both versatility and quality in their eyeshadow products. Whether you’re crafting a look for day or night, this palette offers all the hues and textures you need to express your unique style effortlessly.

This palette offers twelve beautifully coordinated shades that range from versatile neutrals to vibrant pops of color. The shadows come in various finishes including matte, shimmer, and glitter, allowing for a wealth of creativity in your makeup routine.

The texture of the shadows in the Piece Matching Palette is noteworthy; they are smooth, blendable, and buildable, making it easy to achieve both subtle and bold looks. The palette’s design is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, with a clear, easy-to-use layout and a compact form factor that’s perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.

Who is this for:

• Those who enjoy having a versatile range of eyeshadow colors in one palette.
• Makeup lovers who appreciate a mix of finishes for different looks and occasions.
• Beginners to experts looking for an easy-to-use, reliable eyeshadow palette.
• Ideal for anyone who enjoys playing with different eye makeup styles, from natural to dramatic.

Why it’s good:

• Offers a comprehensive range of shades suitable for various skin tones and preferences.
• High-quality formula that allows for smooth application and blendability.
• The diverse finishes (matte, shimmer, glitter) provide options for multiple looks.
• Sturdy and attractive packaging, making it convenient for travel and daily use.

Main strengths:

• The versatility of colors and finishes in one palette catering to multiple looks.
• The fine, silky texture of the shadows ensures even application and lasting wear.
• Good pigment density, which means a little, goes a long way.
• HOLIKA HOLIKA’s reputation for quality in their cosmetics line.

3CE Mood Recipe Multi Eye Color Palette – 3 Types

The 3CE Mood Recipe Multi Eye Color Palette series stands out for its ability to capture the essence of contemporary makeup trends while offering exceptional quality and versatility. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, these palettes provide the tools to express your unique style with elegance and simplicity.

Renowned for their chic, trend-setting approach to makeup, 3CE has designed these palettes to encapsulate modern, sophisticated looks with a touch of edgy elegance. The palettes range from softer, muted earth tones to deeper, more intense hues, providing a professional and versatile approach to eye makeup.

Each palette in this series is a harmonious blend of matte, shimmer, and glitter finishes, offering the wearer an opportunity to craft looks that can transition seamlessly from a day at the office to a night out. The textures are particularly noteworthy – from the smooth, rich mattes that lay down a perfect base or contour, to the dazzling shimmers and glitters that add dimension and sparkle. The formula is commendable for its long-lasting wear and minimal fallout, ensuring your look stays flawless throughout the day.

Who is this for:

• Fashion-forward individuals who enjoy high-quality, trendy makeup.
• Those who prefer a palette that can create both neutral and dramatic looks.
• Makeup users, from beginners to professionals, looking for a versatile, easy-to-use product.
• Anyone who loves a palette that offers different textures and finishes.

Why it’s good:

• The palettes offer a wide range of shades and finishes, making them highly versatile.
• Each color story is carefully curated to create a cohesive, sophisticated look.
• The high-quality formula provides excellent pigmentation and staying power.
• Sleek, minimalist packaging reflects the modern, stylish nature of the brand.

Main strengths:

• The diversity of shades and finishes allows for endless creativity.
• Superior blendability and long-wearing formula enhance user experience.
• The compact, elegant packaging makes it perfect for on-the-go application.
• The 3CE brand’s reputation for contemporary, trendsetting color palettes.

So there you have it – my top picks for the best Korean eyeshadow palette! Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or something a little more luxurious, I hope one of these palettes catches your eye.

How to Choose the Best Korean Eyeshadow Palette

Choosing the best Korean eyeshadow palette involves more than just being captivated by an array of beautiful colors; it requires careful consideration of the formula, pigment, and special features.

The formula is particularly important – it should not only feel comfortable on your eyelids but also offer easy application and blending. Korean beauty products are famed for including skin-friendly, often nourishing ingredients, so look for eyeshadows that are gentle and non-irritating, particularly if you have sensitive skin.

The texture of the eyeshadow plays a significant role in defining your look. Whether you favor velvety mattes, silky shimmers, or extravagant glitters, the texture should complement your style while providing lasting wear without creasing or fallout. Korean eyeshadows are known for their innovative formulas, offering everything from powdery softness to creamy intensity.

Pigmentation is crucial in defining the quality of the eyeshadow. Korean palettes are renowned for their range, offering hues that are buildable from a sheer wash of color to a more opaque look. This feature is particularly important for creating the gradient styles and subtle effects favored in Korean makeup looks. The color payoff when the shadow is applied both dry and wet can also be a determining factor, as some shades may exhibit greater intensity or a different effect when used with a damp brush.

Special features can set a palette apart. These might include unique collaborations with artists or brands, innovative packaging, or specific attributes like long-lasting formulas or added skincare benefits. Some Korean eyeshadow palettes are designed with specific themes in mind, like seasonal colors, natural looks, or even bolder, editorial styles. These features not only add value but can also enhance your makeup experience and inspire creativity.

When choosing the best Korean eyeshadow palette, consider the following:

• Formula: Should be of high quality, smooth in application, and blendable. Look for skin-friendly ingredients.
• Texture: Choose from mattes, shimmers, or glitters based on your personal style. Consider the longevity and crease-resistance of the shadows.
• Pigmentation: Opt for palettes that offer a range from subtle to intense. Check how the eyeshadows perform when applied dry and wet.
• Special Features: Be on the lookout for unique color stories, long-lasting wear, skincare benefits, and extra tools or tutorials that might be included.

Paying attention to these details will ensure that you select a Korean eyeshadow palette that not only meets your aesthetic needs but also provides a comfortable, high-quality, and enjoyable makeup experience.

Choosing the Best Eyeshadow Palette for Your Skin and Eyes

Selecting the ideal Korean eyeshadow palette for your skin tone and eye color can dramatically enhance your overall look. For those with cooler skin tones, palettes with shades of blue, purple, and cool-toned pinks can complement the skin beautifully. Warmer skin tones, on the other hand, are flattered by earthy tones like browns, oranges, and warm reds. Neutral skin tones have the advantage of experimenting with a wide spectrum of colors from both ends of the temperature scale.

When it comes to eye color, the key is to pick shades that contrast and thereby accentuate your natural eye color. For brown eyes, vibrant purples, deep greens, and golds can make your eyes stand out. Blue eyes are enhanced by warm tones like copper, coral, and bronze, which offer a striking contrast. Green and hazel eyes sparkle with shades of burgundy, mauve, and bronze.

It’s also essential to consider the finish and intensity of the shadows in the palette. Matte shades can create a more natural or sculpted look, while shimmers and glitters add brightness and dimension, ideal for enhancing your natural eye color.

In summary:

• Match Skin Tone: Choose cool shades like blues and purples for cooler skin tones, and warm shades like browns and oranges for warmer skin tones. Neutral skin tones can experiment with a broad range of colors.
• Complement Eye Color:
  • Brown Eyes: Opt for purples, greens, and golds.
  • Blue Eyes: Go for warm tones like copper and bronze.
  • Green/Hazel Eyes: Try burgundy, mauve, and earthy tones.
• Finish and Intensity: Matte shades for a natural or sculpted look; shimmer and glitter for adding dimension and brightness.

By considering these factors, you can choose a Korean eyeshadow palette that not only looks stunning but also uniquely complements your individual beauty, bringing out the best in your skin tone and eye color.

How to Apply Korean Eyeshadow Palette

Applying eyeshadow from a Korean palette involves mastering the art of subtle, gradient looks that emphasize natural beauty while offering a hint of playful charm. Start by priming your eyelids to create a smooth, even base for your eyeshadow. This step helps to enhance the color payoff and longevity of the shadows. Begin with a light, neutral shade across the eyelid, setting the stage for more colors.

Next, build the gradient effect, which is central to Korean eyeshadow application. Select a slightly darker shade and apply it on the outer corner of the eye, gently blending it towards the center. Ensure that this blending is seamless, avoiding harsh lines, to achieve the soft, airy look typical of Korean makeup. If you want a bit of depth, especially for evening looks, you can add a darker color at the outermost corner or in the crease, blending it outward and upward.

For the popular aegyo sal, meant to give eyes a youthful, brightened look, use a lighter shimmer or a sparkling shade. Apply it right below your eyes’ lower lash line, focusing on the area where the puffiness appears when you smile. This technique creates an illusion of fuller, more youthful under-eye area, contributing to a cheerful and cute appearance.

Finish by highlighting the inner corners of your eyes with a shimmering light color. This not only brightens the eyes but also makes them appear larger and more awake. For added definition, you can gently line your upper lash line with a dark eyeshadow shade, using an angled brush for precision. This softer line with eyeshadow creates a more natural and soft look compared to traditional eyeliner.

In summary, follow these steps for applying your Korean eyeshadow palette:

1. Prime your eyelids for smooth application.
2. Apply a neutral base shade across the eyelid.
3. Choose a slightly darker shade for the outer corner and blend towards the center.
4. Add depth with a darker color in the outermost corner or crease if desired.

Add these three steps if you want to create an aegyo sal look:

1. Create the aegyo sal by applying a lighter shimmer below the lower lash line.
2. Highlight the inner corners with a light, shimmering color.
3. Softly define the upper lash line with a dark shade for a natural finish.

By following these steps, you can create a stunning, nuanced look that’s characteristic of Korean eyeshadow styles — delicate, natural, and beautifully gradient.

Embracing the Art of K-Beauty Eyeshadows

I hope you feel inspired to delve into the enchanting world of K-beauty. With their unparalleled blend of quality, style, and innovation, these palettes offer something truly special for everyone – from makeup beginners to seasoned beauty aficionados.

They don’t just color your lids; they bring a touch of Korean beauty philosophy into your daily life, emphasizing natural, yet refined looks. So, whether you’re aiming for a subtle day look or an eye-catching evening style, there’s a Korean eyeshadow palette waiting to transform your vision into reality.

Explore the delicate world of Korean eyeshadow palettes and unleash the artist within you. Each palette is more than just makeup; it’s a gateway to experimenting with your style, an invitation to step into a realm where beauty and innovation blend seamlessly.

So why wait? Embrace the unique allure of K-beauty eyeshadows today and transform your makeup routine into an adventure of colors, textures, and self-expression. Let your eyes tell a new story with every hue you choose!