What is the Kim Jong-un haircut called

So, you've seen that haircut. The one on the North Korean leader. People call it the "comma haircut" or "gulmeori"—that's Korean for "tail hair." Over here in the West, folks just describe it as a "pompadour undercut" or a "swept-back undercut." Basically, the sides and back are shaved real short, and the top is left longer. You sweep it backward and style it into this subtle curve or wave. Looks like a comma, you know? It's become his signature thing, and North Korea pushes it hard as a symbol of style and loyalty.

Why is Kim Jong-un’s haircut called the “comma haircut”?

The name's pretty straightforward. From the side, that longer hair swept back forms a curve. Just like a punctuation comma. In Korean, "gulmeori" literally describes that curved shape. Funny thing is, it's not even unique to him. The style has roots in old Korean and Chinese culture. But Kim's version—the high fade on the sides with a voluminous, wavy top—made it famous worldwide. Sometimes people just call it the "Kim Jong-un cut," especially in barbershops outside North Korea. Kinda weird, but it stuck.

What are the key features of the Kim Jong-un haircut?

This haircut has some pretty distinct features. Makes it stand out from your average buzz cut. Here's the breakdown if you're trying to spot it or get one yourself.

How did Kim Jong-un’s haircut become a trend in North Korea?

In North Korea, hairstyles are kind of a big deal—they regulate them. And Kim's cut? It's promoted as the ideal for men. State media and propaganda push young guys to adopt the "gulmeori." Tells them it's patriotic and modern. Barbershops everywhere offer it, and it's seen as a way to show loyalty to the leader. Not mandatory, I don't think, but you see it on officials and in propaganda images everywhere. Outside North Korea, it's got this ironic popularity. Some barbers offer it as a novelty—especially in South Korea and the West. Usually tied to memes and political satire.

Can anyone get the Kim Jong-un haircut?

Technically, yeah. You can walk into any barbershop and ask for it. But getting the exact look? That depends on your hair. Works best on straight or slightly wavy hair that's thick enough to hold volume. If you've got really fine or curly hair, you'll need more product or a different approach. Barbers always say bring a reference photo—chances are, "gulmeori" won't mean anything to them. The top is pretty low-maintenance, but those faded sides need trims every couple of weeks. It's a bold style. Tends to emphasize a rounder face—similar to Kim's.

Expert insights on the Kim Jong-un haircut

I talked to some barbers who've analyzed this cut. They say it's basically a variation of the classic pompadour. The main difference? The extreme contrast between the short sides and long top. "It's a power haircut," one stylist told me. "The swept-back top gives you authority, forward momentum. The clean sides suggest discipline." That comma shape at the back? Adds a playful element. For grooming, you'll need a strong-hold pomade or gel. Especially in humidity. Some barbers also point out it's surprisingly versatile—dress it up for formal stuff or just wear it casual.

Checklist for getting the Kim Jong-un haircut

• Show your barber a clear photo of Kim Jong-un from the side and front.
• Request a high fade or skin fade on the sides and back.
• Ask for the top to be left long (at least 3 inches) and layered for volume.
• Specify that the hair should be swept straight back, not to the side.
• Use a strong-hold pomade or wax to style the top into a smooth curve.
• Trim the sides every 2-3 weeks to maintain the fade.
• Consider a slight wave or curl on the top for the comma effect.

Frequently asked questions