Besides the soothing plant extract cica (centella asiatica) and its related compounds, Jin also sees a popular ingredient in Korean serums that is starting to trend worldwide: PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, the active ingredient used in the infamous drug. salmon sperm facial (A treatment Dr. Park offers at Airem). “It’s touted as this overarching superhero ingredient that helps with everything from reducing inflammation to improving hydration and pigmentation,” says Jin. “PDRN injections are a popular skincare treatment preferred by many bright-skinned civilians in Korea, so it makes sense that the ingredient is bottled for topical use by brands like Medicube, CNP, and Iope. I predict this is just the beginning, and there will likely be more in 2025.” “We’ll see the PDRN product emerge.”

What is the Most Popular Korean Facial Serum?

According to Jin, the real question is: “Which is Korea’s most popular facial serum?” Right now?“The Korean beauty market is known for its constant innovation, so you’re seeing a very rapid turnover of trending products here,” she explains. Dr. Park shares that she’s currently seeing a rise in “clinical beauty”—basically, “serums that evoke the feeling of going to a medical spa,” she says and it says: VT Kozmetik Cica Reedle Shot 100 for example. Dr. “Reedle Shot is a hydrating serum that boosts collagen and hydration levels allow the consumer to customize the product to their needs,” Park explains.

Other currently popular formulas include: Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Repair Serum (popular among those with acne-prone skin) and A Scorching Dive into Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid SerumJin adds that the latter works for almost everyone. “Who doesn’t need more humidity this time of year?” he says. “My skin has been particularly dry lately due to the change of seasons, so I layer the Torriden serum under my moisturizer. It definitely makes a difference in how my makeup goes on.

Which Korean Serum is Best for Glass Skin?

Our experts say that you can’t rely on serum alone to have clear, smooth and glowing skin. “Achieving glass skin involves a skincare routine that focuses on deep cleansing, moisturizing, and layering lightweight, nourishing products to create a radiant, dewy, and pore-free finish,” says Park. Jin recommends double cleansing every night to remove all traces of SPF and makeup, exfoliating regularly (gently to prevent irritation and redness), and incorporating consistent moisturization into your routine through multiple formulas. “Some Korean serums that can help in this quest include Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum, Torriden Dive In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum,” adds Jin.

Meet the Experts

• Jenny Jin She is a beauty writer and editor based in Seoul, South Korea.
• Eunice Park is a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder. Airem in New York.