K-beauty eyeliners are famous for their ultra-fine tips, waterproof formulas, and beginner-friendly designs. Whether you’re practicing your first subtle tightline or attempting a soft wing, Korean eyeliners make the process easier with smooth glide, quick-dry pigments, and budge-proof wear perfect for monolids and everyday makeup. If you’re new to eyeliner, don’t worry. These 10 best K-beauty eyeliners for beginners are ranked for ease of use, pigmentation, and real user reviews.
1. CLIO Sharp So Simple Waterproof Pencil Liner
If you’re nervous about shaky lines, this pencil liner is a dream. The ultra-fine tip gives you precise control, making it perfect for thin lash lines and delicate wings. It’s intensely pigmented yet doesn’t bleed or feather. The waterproof formula holds up against humidity and oily lids, which is ideal for long days. Available in multiple blacks and browns, it’s versatile for both soft and bold looks. Plus, it’s affordable (around $6–9), making it a beginner-friendly investment that feels high-end without the price tag.
2. MERZY The First Pen Eyeliner
Quick-drying and highly precise, this liquid pen liner is great for beginners who want crisp lines without smudging. The brush tip feels flexible yet controlled, allowing you to adjust thickness easily. It dries fast, which reduces transfer on hooded or monolid eyes. With five shades available, you can experiment beyond classic black. Priced between $4–10, it’s one of the most budget-friendly options for students or makeup newbies. If you want sharp definition without the stress of long drying times, this liner makes practice sessions easier.
3. A’pieu Born To Be Madproof Eye Pencil
Gel pencils are the most forgiving for beginners, and this one is especially user-friendly. Its creamy formula glides smoothly without tugging, making it ideal for sensitive eyes. The built-in sharpener keeps the tip precise; no extra tools needed. With five natural shades, it’s perfect for everyday soft definition. If you accidentally smudge it while applying, you have a few seconds to blend before it sets. At around $6, it’s affordable and practical. For first-timers learning basic lash-line definition, this pencil feels comfortable and easy.
4. BBIA Last Auto Gel Eyeliner
Known for its smooth glide, this auto gel liner is beginner-approved for effortless application. The texture is creamy but sets into a smudge-proof finish, which helps avoid raccoon eyes. Browns and blacks make it perfect for natural, daily makeup looks. Because it’s retractable, there’s no sharpening required. It’s also long-lasting, even on oily lids. Priced between $4–12, it’s a budget gem. If you’re learning how to tightline or create soft wings, this liner gives you time to correct mistakes before locking in place.
5. TONYMOLY Back Gel Eyeliner
If you want bold, dramatic lines, this gel pot liner delivers intense pigment with impressive staying power. It comes with a small brush, making it easier for beginners to experiment with wings. The creamy gel texture allows smooth strokes without skipping. Once set, it lasts all day without smudging. With six shades available, it suits both subtle and dramatic styles. While gel pots may seem intimidating, they’re actually forgiving, and you can control the product amount easily. At $11–14, it’s a solid mid-range option.
6. Etude House Oh M’Eye Line Liquid Eyeliner Waterproof
This brush pen liner is perfect for creating soft, slightly smoky lines. The flexible brush tip adapts well to different eye shapes, including monolids. It’s waterproof and long-wearing up to 24 hours, making it ideal for long days or events. The opaque black shade delivers strong definition in one swipe. While slightly pricier at $15.90, its reliability makes it worth it. Beginners who want a classic liquid eyeliner look with blendable flexibility will find this option both practical and versatile.
7. KissMe Heroine Make Smooth Liquid Eyeliner
Often compared to high-end tattoo liners, this liquid eyeliner features a flexible tip that moves smoothly with your hand. The matte black finish looks clean and modern, perfect for everyday makeup. It’s extremely long-lasting and resistant to sweat and tears. Beginners appreciate the steady control and consistent pigment flow. At around $12.50, it offers professional-level performance at a reasonable price. If you want sharp wings that won’t crack or fade, this liner is a reliable go-to.
8. Colorgram All In One Aegyo-Sal Maker
Designed for under-eye definition, this pencil helps create the popular aegyo-sal effect. The soft texture makes it easy for beginners to apply without harsh lines. Browns are ideal for natural enhancement, especially for subtle daily looks. It’s pigmented but blendable, giving you control. At $9, it’s affordable and fun for experimenting beyond standard eyeliner styles. If you’re curious about K-beauty’s signature under-eye contour trend, this beginner-friendly pencil is a great place to start.
9. Espoir Bronze Painting Waterproof Eye Pencil
This creamy pencil is perfect for those who love shimmer. With five pearlescent shades, it adds dimension to simple eye looks. The waterproof formula prevents fading, while the smooth texture glides effortlessly. Beginners can use it to brighten inner corners or create soft glam looks. At $15.89, it’s slightly higher-end but offers unique luminous shades not commonly found in basic liners. If you want to move beyond matte black and experiment with glow, this pencil is a beautiful option.
10. Lilybyred AM9 to PM9 Survival Pen Liner
This fiber brush pen offers smooth ink flow and a matte finish that lasts from morning to night. It’s lightweight in hand, making it easier for beginners to control. The three classic shades work well for daily wear. At $9.65, it’s affordable yet performs like premium liners. The formula resists smudging while remaining comfortable on the lids. If you’re practicing winged eyeliner and want something dependable, this pen liner delivers steady lines with minimal effort.
Application Tips for Beginners
- Start with an eyeshadow primer for better adhesion.
- Use short dashes along the lash line instead of one long stroke.
- Rest your elbow on a table for steady control.
- Choose gel pencils first; they’re the most forgiving.
The best K-beauty eyeliners for beginners combine precision, long-lasting wear, and easy application. Whether you prefer gel pencils, liquid pens, or shimmer pencils, these options make mastering eyeliner less intimidating and a lot more fun.
