The $3.5 Luxury Secret: Why Jung Saem Mool’s ‘ZOOM’ is Vanishing from Daiso Shelves

The Korean beauty scene has just been rocked by a collaboration that no one saw coming, yet everyone is chasing. On January 5, 2026, South Korea’s lifestyle giant Daiso officially launched “ZOOM by Jung Saem Mool,” a dedicated diffusion brand created in partnership with the “Godmother of K-Beauty Base Makeup,” Jung Saem Mool.

As a local expert living in the heart of Seoul, I can tell you: the hype is real. Within hours of the launch, “Sold Out” stickers appeared on display stands nationwide. From the bustling streets of Myeongdong to quiet neighborhood branches, the race to find a single bottle of foundation has become the latest obsession among K-beauty enthusiasts.

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1. What is ‘ZOOM by Jung Saem Mool’?

For those unfamiliar with the name, Jung Saem Mool is a legendary makeup artist who pioneered the “Transparent Makeup” look that defines K-Beauty today. Her premium brand, JUNG SAEM MOOL Beauty, is known for high-end prices and professional-grade results.

ZOOM is the strategic answer to the growing demand for “Value for Money” (Ga-seong-bi) luxury. It distills Jung Saem Mool’s 30 years of expertise into a collection where every single item is priced between 1,000 KRW and 5,000 KRW (approx. $0.75 – $3.50). It isn’t just cheap makeup; it’s professional artistry made accessible to the masses.

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2. The Sold-Out Phenomenon: Why is Everyone Obsessed?

The “Daiso Open Run” (waiting for the store to open) has shifted from skincare to makeup. Here is why the internet is currently breaking:

• The “K-Luxury” Pedigree: Consumers are shocked that they can get a formula developed by a world-class artist for the price of a coffee.
• SNS Virality: On platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the hashtag #DaisoJungSaemMool has exploded. Influencers are performing “blind tests” comparing the $3.5 ZOOM foundation to $50 luxury brands—and the results are often indistinguishable.
• Real Reviews: “The adherence (mil-chak-ryeok) is insane,” one viral tweet noted. Users are praising the brand for not “oxidizing” (turning dark) and for maintaining the signature “Jung Saem Mool Glow” even in harsh winter weather.

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3. The Full Product Lineup: Professional Results for $3.5

The ZOOM collection focuses heavily on base makeup, which is Jung Saem Mool’s specialty. Here is the breakdown of the current stars of the show:

Base & Prep

• Tone-Prep Booster / Radiance Booster (30ml) – 5,000 KRW
  • The Secret: These primers create the perfect “canvas.” The Tone-Prep smooths texture, while the Radiance Booster gives that coveted glass-skin finish.
• Prep Skin Pad (3 Sheets) – 1,000 KRW
  • Essential for cooling down skin temperature before makeup to prevent cakeyness.

The Foundations (The “Hero” Products)

• Satin-Fit Spatula Foundation (19/21/23) – 5,000 KRW
  • Designed for a thin, skin-like finish that mimics the effect of a professional makeup spatula.
• Dew-it Spatula Foundation (19/21/23) – 5,000 KRW
  • For those who want a moisture-rich, dewy look without feeling heavy.
• Glossy Up Cushion / Sebum Down Cushion – 5,000 KRW
  • Compact versions for on-the-go. The Sebum Down version is currently a favorite for those dealing with “mask-ne” or oily T-zones.

Finish & Tools

• Makeup Fixer (50ml) – 5,000 KRW
  • A fine mist that locks everything in place.
• Mini-Tap Puffs (3 pcs) – 2,000 KRW
  • Specially shaped to reach corners around the nose and eyes, designed with Jung Saem Mool’s specific “tapping” technique in mind.

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4. Local Expert Tips: How to Secure Your Haul

If you are currently in Korea or planning a visit, finding these items requires a bit of strategy:

1. Use the ‘Daiso Mall’ App: You can check real-time inventory for specific stores. Don’t waste time wandering; check the app first.
2. Target Residential Areas: Myeongdong and Hongdae branches are cleared out within minutes. Try stores in quieter residential districts (like those in Northern Seoul or Gyeonggi-do).
3. Restock Days: Most Daisos restock in the morning (around 10:00 AM). Being there when the doors open is your best bet for the foundations and cushions.
4. Buy the Tools: Don’t skip the Mini-Tap Puffs. The formula is designed to work with these specific tools to achieve the professional “Jung Saem Mool” finish.

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