The Rising Influence of Korean Dramas on Beauty Standards Among Women in Japan

Korean beauty and entertainment have captured the hearts of many women in Japan, with the phenomenon rooted in the first wave of the Korean craze that began in 2003. Now, more than two decades later, the popularity of K-Pop, food, fashion, and interior design continues to flourish. This growing interest extends profoundly into beauty, with Korean celebrities and influencers leading the way in skin care consciousness.

In a recent survey conducted by Ginza Stephanie Cosmetics on women interested in Korean beauty, it was revealed just how much Korean celebrities influence perceptions of beauty and the quest for flawless skin. This survey ran from December 22 to 23, 2025, involving 1,010 participants who self-identified as being interested in Korean beauty.

The Most Popular K-Dramas in Recent Years

Among the findings, the most-watched Korean dramas over the last five years emerged prominently. “Crash Landing on You” topped the list with 22.8% of responses, followed by “Itaewon Class” (19.4%) and “Goblin” (12.5%). This indicates not just an appreciation for compelling storytelling, but perhaps a heightened focus on the visually striking appearances of the actors as well. These dramas, accessible through various streaming platforms, play a key role in familiarizing Japanese audiences with Korean beauty standards.

Given this increased exposure to Korean celebrities through dramas, we sought to understand the shift in beauty consciousness. When asked if they have ever dreamed of having skin like that of a Korean celebrity, about 92.1% affirmed that they have aspired to achieve such beautiful skin, illustrating the significant influence these celebrities have on women in Japan.

Skincare Routines: The Basics That Matter

The survey also delved into what specific skincare routines women are following to achieve that ideal skin.

When respondents were asked which skincare steps they prioritize, “cleansing” (75.1%) emerged as the top choice, followed closely by “toner” (74.9%) and “face wash” (72.7%). This indicates a strong emphasis on the fundamental aspects of skincare—cleaning and moisturizing—pointing to a deep-rooted belief in maintaining a solid foundation for healthy skin.

However, the dedication to these basic steps raises the question of whether they feel overwhelmed by the routine. When asked if they find daily cleansing and washing to be cumbersome, approximately 83% responded affirmatively, indicating that while they understand the importance of these practices, the intricacies of their skincare regimens have become a psychological burden.

Streamlined Solutions: The Demand for Efficiency

To gauge the interest in alleviating this burden, participants were queried about their willingness to try products that offer simplified skincare routines, combining cleansing and peeling into one. A remarkable 90.3% expressed interest in trialing such products. This highlights a growing desire among modern women to reconcile the demands of effective skincare with their busy lifestyles.

The high interest in time-efficient skincare routines suggests that modern consumers increasingly value “time performance” when choosing products. Many are looking for solutions that would reduce the number of steps without sacrificing results, aligning with their desire for beautiful skin.

Conclusion: Bridging Aspirations and Reality in Skincare

The findings from this survey illustrate that Korean dramas have become more than just entertainment; they significantly influence the beauty standards sought by Japanese women. With a high percentage aspiring to attain the skin quality seen in dramas like “Crash Landing on You” and “Itaewon Class”, it is apparent that the drive for flawless skin is strong. However, the gap between aspiration and reality—illustrated by the 80% who find their skincare regimen burdensome—presents a unique challenge.

Responses indicated an eagerness for innovative products that streamline skincare without compromising effectiveness, such as Ginza Stephanie Cosmetics’ new BIVABOO MIRAGE Cleansing Balm + Peeling, which promises an all-in-one solution for effective cleansing and moisturization. This product, which will be available for pre-order, encapsulates the essence of modern skincare needs, providing multiple benefits while reducing steps.

With products that make daily routines more enjoyable and less tedious, women can move closer to their skincare ideals with ease.

Product Highlights

BIVABOO MIRAGE Cleansing Balm + Peeling integrates four textures in one: balm, oil, milk, and clear, ensuring a comprehensive skincare experience that meets the needs of today's busy women. This product effectively removes makeup and impurities while enhancing skin hydration through natural ingredients, making it an ideal addition to the modern skincare routine.

- Product Size: 100ml
- Price: ¥2,980 (incl. tax)

As the demand for efficiency grows, innovative products like the BIVABOO MIRAGE line present exciting opportunities for women to redefine their skincare experiences and aspirations.