North Korea approves list of allowed hairstyles — it will surprise everyone.

In North Korea, residents' appearance is taken very seriously. Recently, it became known that the state even controls hairstyles, makeup, and hair length.

What is forbidden to do with hair in North Korea

The country has official posters with recommendations for haircuts. Women are allowed to choose only from 18 models, while men can choose from 15. Dyeing hair, making curls, and using bright makeup is prohibited.

Women's hair must be shoulder-length or shorter, and only natural makeup shades are allowed. Red lipstick or bright eyeshadows are forbidden.

Journalist Mika Makelainen shared these 'fashion standards' on Twitter, emphasizing that the same rules regarding haircuts and dyeing hair apply to both women and men.

In 2014, students were ordered to cut their hair like the country's leader, and girls were advised to adorn their hair by following the style of the First Lady, Ri Sol-ju. However, in 2025, one of the popular haircuts became trendy again, indicating possible changes in fashion standards.

In North Korea, the state not only controls the political sphere but also interferes in citizens' private lives, establishing even fashion standards regarding hairstyles and makeup. This is yet another example of a repressive regime that dictates even such small details as the appearance of hair.