Korean gel nail polish is trending for a reason: bold color, sleek design, and salon-level quality you can get right from the comfort of home. From ultra-pigmented polish to syrupy textures made for flawless gradients, Korean gel polish brands offer a unique manicure experience.

If you’re looking for the best Korean nail art inspiration or the best polish brands, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the top picks and most popular Korean nail designs taking over right now.

Top Korean Gel Nail Polish Brands on the Market Today

Korean gel nail polish brands have exploded in popularity, with dozens of options offering high-performance formulas and trend-forward colors. At Beyond Polish, we carry a curated selection of the most sought-after Korean gel brands trusted by both DIYers and professionals alike. When you’re looking for rich pigment, smooth application, and eye-catching packaging, Korean gel polish is the way to go.

Here are some top brands dominating the market today.

Gentle Pink

Gentle Pink is a South Korean nail polish brand known for its trendy shades and high-quality formulas. Every color is inspired by seasonal looks from luxury fashion houses and undergoes multiple rounds of testing to achieve the perfect shade.

The brand focuses heavily on safety and performance, using gentle ingredients and refining every detail – from brush shape to bottle grip – for a smooth, professional finish.

Kenzico Professional

Kenzico is a high-quality professional range of Korean gel polish and accessories, also based in South Korea. The products are made from 100% cosmetic materials and are 14-free, featuring cleaner, safer ingredients.

The formula is renowned for being easy to remove and providing both durability and a high-gloss shine. With its superior shine, scratch-resistant, and acid-free formula, you don’t have to worry about Kenzico nail polish fading after just a few days.

Popular Korean Nail Trends

Korean nail trends are known for their soft elegance, playful textures, and innovative use of color. From runway-inspired gradients to glossy minimalist designs, Korean nail art has redefined what modern manicures can look like.

If you’ve been looking for fresh Korean nail designs or want to upgrade your nail polish game, these trends are the perfect place to start.

Photo credit: @nailbibiz

Syrup Nails

One notable difference between Korean gel polish and regular gel polish is consistency. Korean gel tends to be on the thicker side, requiring one to two coats at most for full coverage.

The "syrup” nail trend is similar to the ombre nail trend we see a lot of here in the United States: it's a gradient-effect design that "melts" from translucent layers.

To do this trend yourself, begin by applying your base coat. Then, take your color and apply a very thin layer just below the cuticle. Continue applying thin layers until the top of the nail (or bottom, depending on your personal preference) is the darkest.

This Korean nail art design is one of the best ways to get a shiny, glossy finish without setting foot into a salon.

Photo credit: @a.l.u.m_rin

Diamond Nails

Diamond nails are a standout Korean nail art trend created by South Korean nail artist  Park Eunkyung.

This design creates a holographic, light-catching effect that uses layered pieces of cellophane to mimic the look of the shattered glass or gemstone facets.

Popular across social media, this trend adds dimension and shine without being too dramatic (unless being dramatic is your thing). It’s a perfect option for anyone looking to try a Korean nail look with a bold, futuristic twist.

Photo credit: @unistella_kr

High-Heel Nails

High-heel nails are a popular Korean nail art trend that uses negative space to mimic the sleek shape of a stiletto heel. The design typically features a narrow, pointed accent running through the center of the nail, creating a bold and fashion-forward silhouette.

As part of the growing interest in minimal yet statement-making Korean nail designs, this look blends clean lines with a touch of attitude. It’s an ideal style for anyone exploring modern Korean nail trends with an editorial hint.

Korean Gel Polish: FAQs

What makes Korean gel polish different from American brands?

Korean gel polish is known for its highly pigmented colors, smooth gel-like consistency, and focus on trend-driven designs. Many Korean gel polish brands also prioritize clean beauty, offering formulas that are 10-free or 14-free, making them a popular choice for DIY nail enthusiasts seeking both performance and safety.

Can beginners use Korean gel nail polish at home?

Yes! Korean gel nail polish is beginner-friendly, especially for DIY users who want salon-quality results without a professional license.

How long does Korean gel polish typically last?

Most Korean gel polishes last between 10 and 21 days, depending on the formula and how well the nails are prepped before application.

Do I need a UV or LED lamp for Korean gel polish?

Yes, almost all Korean gel polish brands require curing under a UV or LED lamp to set the polish properly. Be sure to check the specific instructions for the brand you're using, as cure times can vary depending on the formula and type of lamp.