FAQs
Who can benefit from a Personal Color consultation?
Anyone can benefit from a personal color consultation if they are interested in improving their confidence, simplifying shopping, or just curious about what looks good on them.
What is personal color?
Personal color at Hybrid Rainbow Studio is not just about “this color looks good on you”. Hybrid Rainbow Studio uses the Korean color analysis system and gives you a range of tones you can wear for different days and occasions. They all look good on you, but for different reasons. They are the tones that suit your complexion and image best. Personal color is also a form of color psychology, as it explains why you feel good wearing certain clothing and get compliments and why you may have other stuff in your wardrobe that you wonder why you even own.
Is personal color a new trend from Korea?
Personal color has been around for a very long time. Clothing and even makeup was custom made, so people were color matched when their products were made. These days, everything is mass produced, so we have to do the hard work of finding what looks best. What we know of as Personal Color was popularized in the 1960s and 1970s in the USA, and came over to Japan in the 1980s. Korea popularized personal color in the 1990s, so it’s been used in Korea for over 30 years. Korea is known for personal color because Korea is a very image conscious country and personal color and styling is more accessible.
Why does Hybrid Rainbow Studio use the Korean personal color system? What’s the difference?
The Korean personal color system is newer and tone based. The Japanese personal color system was developed in the 1980s and based on the American personal color system which was developed in the 1970s. It is more practical to find the tone that suits you instead of a single color. It’s also updated to reflect current fashion trends. This is a more flexible and innovative approach to personal color, as each item is checked individually (if you would like to know more about the differences, make a reservation and ask about the differences during your consultation, I would be happy to explain since I have licenses in both the Korean and Japanese personal color systems).
Why is Hybrid Rainbow Studio special?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio is the first and only Personal Color Consulation and Image Analysis studio owned and managed by a native English speaker from the USA who studied Korean makeup in Korean beauty school. The philosophy used is for image curation - different tones and styles will suit you for different parts of your life. Additionally, each element is checked individually (skin tone, fashion tones, makeup tones, body frame, shape, etc) as they all have different variables. There is no one size (or one color) fits all type when approaching personal color!
Is personal color accurate on non-Koreans?
The Korean personal color system is tone based and newer than the American or Japanese personal color systems. It was developed in the 2010s. I’ve had over 3000 customers from all over the world with all different skin tones. At Hybrid Rainbow Studio, I check each element individually (skin tone, fashion tones, makeup tones, etc) since they all have different variables. This is why Hybrid Rainbow Studio is known for being very meticulous but also taking longer than other studios.
Can men get a personal color analysis?
Yes, Hybrid Rainbow Studio offers personal color and styling programs for men with special materials. Please check the Programs page to see the Programs available. Program 2 or Program 3 are recommended for those who do not want to check makeup but only want to check fashion tones.
I don’t care about makeup. Can I still do get a personal color analysis without makeup?
Yes, Hybrid Rainbow Studio offers programs without makeup curation so anyone can get a color consultation. Please check the Programs page to see the Programs available. Program 2 or Program 3 are recommended for those who do not want to check makeup but only want to check fashion tones.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio do color consultations for couples?
Yes, Hybrid Rainbow Studio offers discounts for groups. You can book the options for 2 people on the booking site. You can book a combination of Program 1 and Program 1, Program 1 and Program 2, or Program 2 and Program 2 as group consultations.
Do tourists pay more than locals at for personal color at Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
There are no tourist prices. Hybrid Rainbow Studio does not work with third party sites or travel agents, which helps to keep personal color reservations affordable. You can book directly with Hybrid Rainbow Studio through the booking site with no middle person or hidden charges. Additionally, there is no extra fees for English services since you do not need an interpreter or translator. The owner of Hybrid Rainbow Studio is a native English speaker from the USA. You can learn more about Hybrid Rainbow Studio’s owner here.
How do I choose a program?
At Hybrid Rainbow Studio, there are many different programs available for anyone to learn about the tones and colors that suit them best, from quick consultation programs to more detailed consultation programs - some are even available to book with friends or family. You can check the booking site or Programs page and read the descriptions to see each option available with each program.
What qualifications does Christina Kim, the owner of Hybrid Rainbow Studio, have?
Christina Kim is from the USA but studied art history and has lived in Asia almost exclusively for the past 17 years. She has licenses in both the Korean and Japanese personal color systems (5 licenses in total) and went to Korean beauty school to study makeup, skincare, waxing, microblading/semipermanent makeup, stage makeup, wedding makeup, and eyelash extensions.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio offer Body Frame Analysis, Body Analysis, Styling Analysis, Skeletal Diagnosis, or Face Frame Analysis services?
Yes, Hybrid Rainbow Studio now offers Body Frame Analysis and Face Frame Analysis programs. However, since these sound very clinical, they are called Personal Styling Curations. You can book either Program 7 or Program 8. However, since they take a long time, limited time slots are available each week. These programs are not available to those under 18 years old international age.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio give accessory recommendations?
Yes, Hybrid Rainbow Studio checks accessory colors in all programs (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and wristwatches). This is optional. In Program 4, you can also check different types of jewelry, and in Programs 7 and 8 you can check lengths and styles of jewelry that fit your face and body. You can even check glasses frames in Programs 4, 7, and 8.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio give hair color and hair styling recommendations?
Yes, Hybrid Rainbow Studio gives hair color recommendations in all programs except Program 3. Hair style recommendations are given with Programs 7 and 8. You can also book with a nearby Korean hair studio and get 10% off dyeing or perming your hair after your consultation.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio recommend makeup or cosmetics?
After your consultation, in Program 1, 4, or 8, you can get a shopping list of makeup recommendations. You will also learn your foundation shade in Korean foundation brands. Since Hybrid Rainbow Studio is managed by a certified esthetician trained in Korea, you can also get basic cosmetic recommendations. You will be able to find most products in Olive Young as they are all K-Beauty recommendations.
Can Hybrid Rainbow Studio recommend makeup styles?
Yes, you can see examples of your recommended makeup at the end of the consultation and see more examples of makeup styles that will suit you in Program 1, Program 4, and Program 8.
How does makeup personal color and fashion tone personal color differ?
In the Korean personal color system, each attribute is checked separately because they have different variables. You can have a warm undertone but look best in cool fashion tones or makeup. This is why the Korean personal color system takes longer than other personal color programs. This is a more personalized system. Knowing the best makeup tones will help you save money if you are someone who just wants to know what will suit you (you won’t waste money on makeup that doesn’t look good anymore) and help those who are interested in makeup or love makeup expand their collections and style.
What kind of makeup products does Hybrid Rainbow Studio recommend?
After your consultation, in Program 1, 4, or 8, you can get a shopping list of eyeshadow, blush, and lip makeup recommendations based on your personal color results. You will also learn your foundation shade in Korean foundation brands. Most of these products should be easy to find in Olive Young (the main cosmetic store in Korea). Some products from western brands will be recommended, but Hybrid Rainbow Studio can offer alternative K-Beauty products based on your personal color results if you have difficulty finding the recommended products. You can even see examples of Korean makeup styles based on your consultation in Program 1, 4, or 8.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio recommend products from other countries like the USA?
The owner of Hybrid Rainbow Studio studied at beauty school in Korea, keeps track of Korean beauty product releases, and follows K-Beauty trends, so recommendations are mostly Korean products.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio recommend cosmetics for men?
Yes, men’s cosmetics is a growing category in K-Beauty and you can get cosmetic products and even makeup suggestions specifically for men during your consultation.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio give swatches after the consultation?
Yes, you will get physical color cards and a personalized booklet with a summary after your consultation. You will also get a complimentary email summary with colors attached as files in case you lose the color cards (depending on the program you book). The color cards are specially designed and can fit in your wallet.
What if I don’t like my personal color results?
Personal color is always going to be subjective. You can visit every consultant in Korea and get different results from each one. It doesn’t mean any of the consultants are wrong, it just means this is what they believe look best on you. You can take everything as a suggestion, not a rule. At Hybrid Rainbow Studio, the owner also promotes personal style and preferences. Since opening, Hybrid Rainbow Studio has had several returning customers that decided to curate a new style for themselves later.
What do I need to prepare for my personal color or personal styling reservation? Do I need to wear something special?
You can check the email sent manually about 48 hours before your reservation. For all reservations, please wear basic makeup such as foundation, sunscreen, or concealer as Korean personal color needs to be checked with how you present yourself every day. For those who grow facial hair, it is recommended you shave if you shave every day. You can leave facial piercings on and wear glasses if you wear them every day (or contact lens if you wear them every day). For most consultations, you do not need to wear anything special and you will be given a cape to wear. If you have long hair, you may want to bring a hair tie or scrunchy to secure your hair during the draping process. For Programs 7 and 8, please wear comfortable clothing without a lot of volume so that measurements can be taken more accurately. When checking eyewear, a smaller mirror will be provided so you can see closer if needed.
Do I need to take notes or photos during my personal color or personal styling consultation? It’s overwhelming!
Unlike most other personal color consultation studios, you will get a personalized booklet and color cards to take with you! A summary email and a product shopping list of recommendations will be sent after your reservation so you won't lose or forget any details. (Results email depends on the program you book).
Can I take photos or video during my personal color consultation?
You are welcomed to take photos or video during the draping process and of your curation board, but you do not need to take photos or video to remember your consultation results. I do all the work for you and I will give you a personalized booklet, color cards for fashion tones and makeup, and a summary email after your consultation (Results depend on the program you book).
What do I need to bring for my personal color or personal styling consultation?
You should bring your foundation or concealer that you normally wear if you are doing Program 1, 4, or 8. I can compare your foundation directly with your skin tone to tell you if it is a good match. You can also bring up to 10 other color cosmetic items for me to check such as eyeshadow, blush, or lipstick. I cannot easily check loose powder or setting powder, and eyeliner or eyebrow products cannot be checked. You may also want to bring a hair tie or scrunchy if you have long hair (I do have some hair ties but it would be better if you bring your own).
Can I bring another person to my personal color consultation?
Yes, you may bring another person for your consultation. You must tell me in advance. Only one person who is not paying is allowed in the studio during your consultation. If you are coming as a group, please do not bring extra people since it will be uncomfortable. Some programs such as Program 4, 7, and 8 take a long time, so I recommend coming alone. Those under 18 years old international age must bring a guardian with them when visiting. Children and babies under 13 years old are not allowed in Hybrid Rainbow Studio under any circumstances (this is for safety).
Do I need an English translator or interpreter?
The owner of Hybrid Rainbow Studio is a native English speaker from the USA, so you do not need to pay extra to hire an English translator or interpreter. However, if there is a member of your group that needs translation from English to another language (for example, a family member cannot speak English or Korean and another family member comes to translate) - Please notify Hybrid Rainbow Studio in advance as translating could need extra time and I can try to accommodate it.
Where is Hybrid Rainbow Studio located?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio is located in Jamsil (Songpa-Gu Seoul) in South Korea. Jamsil Station is between Gangnam and Seongsu. Surrounding the studio is a quiet cafe street that is popular with locals but often overlooked by tourists. You can find Hybrid Rainbow Studio on Google Maps, Naver Maps, and Kakao Maps. For more contact information, please visit the Contact and Location page. After making a reservation, you will get a map of over 200 cafes, restaurants, and attractions nearby.
How many people work at Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio is a private studio owned and managed by one person. Each consultation is one on one, but groups can book together on the booking site.
How can I make a reservation?
Reservations can be made on the booking site only. You can check availability in real time and book at any time of the day or night. Reservations cannot be made by phone, email, or Instagram DM. (If you have questions, you can send an email or message me on instagram).
What number can I call to make a reservation?
Reservations can be made on the booking site only. You can check availability in real time and book at any time of the day or night. Reservations cannot be made by phone, email, or Instagram DM. Please email for questions, as I cannot return international phone calls.
Do you accept walk in reservations?
Walk-in reservations are not accepted. Please make a reservation in advance.
Reservations are full for the day I want to book. Is there a wait-list?
Reservations close when a certain number of reservations are booked each day (normally this is after 4 or 5 reservations). There is no wait-list - please make a reservation in advance.
How can I make a group reservation?
To make a group reservation you can book one reservation for each person. For example, one person starts at 1:00pm, second person starts at 2:00pm, third person at 3:00pm, etc. A deposit must be made for each person. Groups must arrive together to receive discounts. It will take about one hour per person, so large groups of 3 or more may be split into groups.
Are there discounts for group reservations?
Yes, Program 1 and Program 2 are discounted for groups. Program 1 is discounted 10,000 Korean Won and Program 2 is discounted 3,000 Korean Won. These can be combined. Please visit the Programs page to see all the details about each program. There are also sales available sometimes.
When do reservations for December open?
Reservations for December will open at the end of October or mid-November.
Why do I need to pay a deposit?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio is a private studio. owned and managed by one person. Materials and time slots are set aside for each customer or group. The deposit is used to reduce the number of no show reservations. Your reservation is not finalized until the deposit is sent.
Does my deposit count towards the total cost of the reservation?
Yes, the deposit is deducted from the total cost of your reservation fee. The remainder of your consultation price can be paid by domestic and international debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, domestic Korean Bank Transfer, Wise, Paypal, Kakaopay, WOWPASS, or cash.
How do I pay the deposit?
The deposit can be paid on the booking site with PayPal. If you do not have a PayPal account, you can pay with credit or debit card with PayPal Checkout. Wise and Domestic Korean bank transfer is also accepted. If these options do not work for you, a deposit can be made in person if you visit Hybrid Rainbow Studio and pay in advance (no same day reservations but you must already be in Korea when booking).
Does the total cost include the deposit?
Yes, the prices displayed on the Programs page and booking site are the full prices (including the tax and deposit). Your deposit will be deducted from the total price and you can pay the remainder by domestic and international debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, domestic Korean Bank Transfer, Wise, Paypal, Kakaopay, WOWPASS, or cash.
What payment options are available to pay the remainder of the consultation fee?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio accepts all payment methods. The remainder of your consultation price can be paid by domestic and international debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, domestic Korean Bank Transfer, Wise, Paypal, Kakaopay, WOWPASS, or cash. You can also pay the entire cost in advance with PayPal or Wise.
I need to cancel my reservation. Can I get my deposit refunded?
If you are cancelling your reservation 49 hours or earlier before the day of your reservation, your deposit will be refunded (excluding PayPal fee if you use PayPal). Please wait a few hours for it to be done manually (especially if you are living overseas). For domestic bank transfer or Wise, please contact and send your information for the deposit to be refunded. If you are cancelling 48 hours or less before your reservation, the deposit cannot be refunded.
What if I am arriving late?
Please notify Hybrid Rainbow Studio as soon as possible so accommodations can be made. Reservations cannot be changed on the same day. If you are 30 minutes late with no contact, the reservation is considered a no-show and cancelled (even if you message Hybrid Rainbow Studio that you cannot come to your reservation once the reservation time has started, your deposit cannot be refunded).
How can I change my reservation?
If it is 48 hours or earlier than your reservation date, contact Hybrid Rainbow Studio to change your reservation time and date. You can check to see times available on the booking site. If you don’t see your desired time available, it is already booked. If you make a reservation and made a mistake or suddenly need to change it within the same hour (after paying the deposit), please do not cancel the reservation. Please email Hybrid Rainbow Studio to change the reservation time and date so you do not need to pay the deposit again (it can be transferred). If you want to change your reservation on the day before or day of your reservation, you must check the booking site and see available time slots and make a new reservation and new deposit.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio do online consultations?
The owner of Hybrid Rainbow Studio believes that online consultations are not accurate due to lighting and video changes. Consultations can only be done in the studio. Hybrid Rainbow Studio is equipped with special lighting and materials that make the consultations accurate. Online consultations will never be accurate.
Can I do a personal color consultation after getting plastic surgery, laser, Botox, or skin boosting treatments?
Though personal color can be done after beauty or cosmetic procedures, please disclose if you have gotten any treatments in the last 48 hours as bruising, swelling, or redness can become more visible. It is better to do a personal color consultation before getting cosmetic procedures.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio do private consultations outside of the studio (will Hybrid Rainbow Studio bring materials and do a consultation closer to me)?
All consultations are only available in Hybrid Rainbow Studio as the studio is set up with special lighting and materials are very difficult to travel with. Please make a reservation on the booking site.
My hotel is in (Myeong-Dong, Hongdae, Gangnam). How far is it from Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
You can find Hybrid Rainbow Studio on all map services and check the distance between your hotel and the studio. You can find Hybrid Rainbow Studio on Google Maps, Naver Maps, and Kakao Maps. For more contact information, please visit the Contact and Location page.
The address is:
Jeongmyeong Building, Baekjaegobunro 45gil 24, 204, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
서울 송파구 백제고분로45길 24 정명빌딩 204호
After making a reservation, you will get an email with information and photo instructions on how to find the studio.
Can Hybrid Rainbow Studio be booked for seminars, presentations, or group programs outside of the studio?
Yes, if there is a corporate event, pop up event, opening event or executive or educational program you are organizing and you would like to invite Hybrid Rainbow Studio to do seminars or presentations, please send an email to inquire about it.
What is near Hybrid Rainbow Studio? Are there any special attractions?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio is located in Jamsil, Seoul. It is located on a cafe street that is quiet but very popular with locals. Within walking distance is Seokchon Lake, Olympic Park (the location of the 1988 Summer Olympics), Lotte World (the world’s largest indoor amusement park), Lotte World Mall, and Lotte World Tower (the tallest tower in South Korea). It’s also located between Seongsu and Gangnam on Line 2. After booking, you will get a map of over 200 cafes, restaurants, and places of interest you can explore before or after your reservation.
Can I bring food or drink in Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
While you are able to bring non-alcoholic beverages into Hybrid Rainbow Studio, things that must be recycled must be taken out with you (such as bottles, cups, or cans). There is no trash available except for paper. You cannot bring drinks near the fabric. Food is not allowed in the studio. During group reservations, you can leave and come back.
When is Hybrid Rainbow Studio’s day off?
Hybrid Rainbow Studio is open every day. However, days off will be taken occasionally. Please check the booking site to see all availability.
Does Hybrid Rainbow Studio pay for influencers or reviews?
Unlike other similar businesses that may pay influencers or give incentives for reviews or promotion, Hybrid Rainbow Studio values integrity and all reviews are made by paying customers. I’ve heard many times that customers distrust influencer reviews because they may get special treatment. I treat everyone with the same respect. Before booking at a studio, please read the reviews carefully and see how many are written in a short time. In Korea, all paid ads must be disclosed by law.
Is there parking available at Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
Yes, there is a small parking lot underneath the building which you can park.
Is there a bathroom at Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
There are two bathrooms in the building at Hybrid Rainbow Studio. They each have door codes which will be included in the Hybrid Rainbow Studio Information email you will get 48 hours before the consultation.
Are there phone chargers at Hybrid Rainbow Studio?
Yes, there are apple and Samsung chargers available to use around the studio. You can also bring your own charger.