How to be a Kpop Star for a Day

Have you ever wanted to be a Kpop Star for a day? I’m sure the thought has crossed your mind and perhaps tickled your fancy. I know it’s tickled mine! Kpop stars are known for being flawless, but who are the pros behind their flawless locks and amazing albums? When you come to Seoul, I challenge you to try these experiences. (Also, holy moly, this is my last post of the year. Goodbye 2017, bon voyage, fare thee well, I will be happy to leave you behind in the trash.) 

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Comme Nana

Have you ever heard of Cheongdamdong? It’s located near Apgujeong which is pretty much the Beverly Hills of Seoul. Everything is top notch from the services, restaurants, entertainment and even celebrities that frequent when they have a spare moment. A lot of places are tucked away on side streets so everyone going in and out can have their privacy. Comme Nana is no different and I’m kinda sorta in love with this salon.

When you walk into the salon it is chic and very open. You’re greeted by the attendants at the front desk where your coat and other accessories are taken into a locker. The windows at every station help natural light come in. Korea does hair salons right because when they wash your hair you get a scalp massage along with it.

Dylan is literally one of the best stylists I’ve ever had in my life. As a foreigner living in South Korea, it’s important to me to find a good stylist who can work with my unruly curly/wavy hair. It’s hard for me to maintain my own locks so finding someone who can is a bloody miracle. He’s had over 14 years experience as a hair stylist and has even worked abroad. Did I mention his English is pretty much perfect?

If you’re thinking, “Oh yes! A Korean salon that won’t ruin my hair” book your experience here. This is best if you can’t Korean, don’t have a friend that can Korean, Comme Nana is totally booked. They will find something for you. I promise. 

Before I went to the salon, I was contacted by REKO who found the best salon for my needs. I sent pictures of what I wanted and they were able to set everything up for me hassle free. When I went to the station, I was greeted by a representative and we walked around Apgujeong where he showed me other famous salons and even a ramen shop Suengri from Big Bang owns. Is he still lost in Japan? Probably, the world may never know…

Anyway the experience was really amazing because I was served tea and snacks. Now that is what I call top notch service!

Related: The Most Romantic Kdrama Spots in Seoul 

How to Get to Comme Nana

From Apgujong Rodeo Station take Exit 3. Walk about ten minutes up the road until you find the bend and turn right. When you find Apgujeong-ro 72-gil turn right and walk up the hill. The salon will be on your right. You literally can’t miss it.

Address: 96-13 Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

서울시 강남구 청담동 96-13

Phone Number: 02-545-2924

Related: What to do in Seoul 

King Studio

Another place tucked away on a side street for privacy, King Studio is where the real pros go to record songs. Some of the most famous artists that have recorded albums there include (but are not limited to) Kangta, Ivy, Jang Yoon Jeong, Lee Seung Chul, and VIXX! There’s a photo of them sitting on the couch in the studio. Get closer to your idols and warm your buns on the same couch VIXX’s buns have touched. How does that make you feel? Are you full of the fan girl feels? Good. 

If you want, you can even record songs in Korean. When I went, I chose to sing Sunday Morning by Maroon Five. When I booked the experience, I was texted by the manager, Baek Cho Hee and asked to send my song request so they could prepare it ahead of time. 

They don’t speak much English so it’s best to book your experience via Trazy. The beginner advanced gold will get you a translator in English, Japanese or Chinese.

When I entered, I was given a tour and shown around the small studio space. I was introduced to the many artists who had recorded there and given a lyric sheet and water to practice before I went in. While in the studio, there is a soundproof room. You’ll have a professional headset where you can adjust the sound of your voice so you can hear yourself sing. When you use the microphone you have to sing into it a fist away for optimal sound quality. The room is completely soundproof so rest assured you’re gonna sound like a rockstar.

Related: How to Easily Book Kpop Concerts 

How to Get to King Studio

It’s literally super hard to explain in writing how to get there, so let me drop this YouTube video and help ya’ll out. The first thing you need to do is walk out Apgujeong Station exit 3. If you’re still having issues, click here for a link to Naver. 

Address: 626-71, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea

서울시 강남구 신사동 626-71

Phone Number: 02-6338-2428

I love how Comme Nana and King Studio are located a train ride away so you can easily do these in a day. If you’re pressed for time the commute to both places isn’t a big deal. Everyone was so professional and I loved everything about them. It’s hard work being a star but I had so much fun the time passed so quickly. I would probably want to be a Kpop star one more time, so if I am… Which song should I sing next time? 😉 

Gina Bear was invited to try these experiences by One More Trip. As always, all thoughts and opinions remain my own.