NEW IN TOWN

We catch up with one of South Korea's most respected makeup artists, Jung Saem Mool, who speaks to us here about her brand and its new flagship store in Singapore

- MELISSA MAE

If we’re on the topic of beauty greats, the name Jung Saem Mool will likely come to mind. After all, the visionary is one of South Korea’s most respected and celebrated professional makeup artists in the game, with over 30 years of experience in painting the faces of Asian entertainment’s most prominent stars — think Lee Hyori, Jun Ji-hyun, BoA, Song Hye-kyo, Kim Tae-hee, Choi Jiwoo, Tang Wei and Kim Yuna.

Jung was also the pioneer of the natural makeup trend, first seen in the 2001 South Korean romantic comedy My Sassy Girl starring Jun Ji-hyun and Cha Tae-hyun, where she gained recognition and praise for Jun’s “transparent makeup” — a look that emphasised a f lawless barely-there base, naturally-f luffed brows and tinted lips. Now, you’ ll see Jung’s signature style reinterpreted in many ways across many faces, such as the popular no-makeup makeup trend so often talked about and worn by the beauty community all over the world. It’s a trend you probably would have tried yourself too.

Following her success on this front, Jung opened her beauty school, JUNGSAEMMOOL Makeup Academy,  in 2005 to teach aspiring artists her skills and techniques through intimate masterclasses. She proceeded to launch her makeup brand, JUNGSAEMMOOL ten years later. Both establishments are still thriving to this day. As a matter of fact, the brand remains a trusted companion to many South Korean stars and beauty enthusiasts, including TWICE’s Jihyo, who is said to religiously use JUNGSAEMMOOL’s Essential Skin Nuder Long Wear Cushion — a foundation, known for its seamless coverage and long-lasting wear, which gives users a natural and glowy complexion.