Beauty Salon Business Registration in Korea — 2026 Guide

1. Types of Beauty Businesses & Notification vs. Permit

Beauty businesses in Korea are regulated under the Public Health Control Act and require a business notification (not a permit) filed with the local district office. Meeting the requirements allows same-day operation after notification.

• General beauty (일반 미용업): haircuts, perms, coloring, blowouts
• Skin care (피부 미용업): skin treatment, hair removal, eyebrow styling
• Nail care (네일 미용업): nail care, nail art
• Makeup (화장 미용업): makeup artistry
• Comprehensive (종합 미용업): 2+ categories combined

2. Hairdresser License Requirements

• Graduation from a related department at high school, junior college, or university; OR
• Pass the national hairdresser/beautician qualification exam
• License issued by the mayor/governor of the relevant province
• Foreigners must verify that their visa status allows employment

3. Registration Procedure

1. Confirm the hairdresser license is issued
2. Sign a lease for the business premises
3. Complete the interior fit-out to meet facility standards
4. Submit business notification to the district office sanitation department
5. Receive notification certificate and commence operations

4. Facility & Hygiene Standards

• Changing room, washbasin, and sterilization facilities required
• Working area separated from waiting area
• Ventilation and lighting standards met
• Sterilizer and disposable hygiene materials on hand

5. Mandatory Hygiene Training

Operators must complete a 3-hour hygiene training course before opening or within 6 months of opening, at a designated institution such as the Korea Hairdressers Association.