Hippie perms return as go-to summer look for Gen MZ flair

Chuu, left, and IVE’s Rei show off their hippie perm styles. Captured from social media of each

Hippie perms are back in the spotlight as a major hair trend this summer. For those looking to channel a carefree yet edgy vibe, particularly one that embodies so-called “MZ power,” now may be the time to try out the retro-inspired style — one that has recently been favored by several K-pop idols.

Singer Chuu recently posted photos on social media revealing her latest hair transformation. Known for her usual straight or loosely wavy locks, she surprised fans by opting for a tightly curled hippie perm. With curls added all the way to her bangs, Chuu highlighted her signature lovable image with a fresh, more vibrant charm.

IVE’s Rei put her own twist on the look by keeping her trademark bangs straight while adding curls to the rest of her hair. The style marked a departure from her usual appearance and offered a bolder aesthetic.

Yuqi of i-dle, left, and Ningning of aespa also try the hippie perm trend. Captured from social media of each

Other idols embracing the trend include i-dle’s Yuqi and aespa’s Ningning, both showcasing their unique interpretations. Yuqi enhanced her doll-like image by pairing the perm with blonde, bleached hair in a more polished style. Ningning, on the other hand, opted for a free-spirited take, emphasizing a “girl crush” vibe with bold curls and a confident look.

To make the most of a hippie perm, hair stylists recommend scrunching the curls by hand while blow-drying to avoid unwanted frizz. Applying a hair essence or oil when the hair is about 80 percent dry can help lock in definition and give the style a cleaner finish.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.