Two Block Haircut: 6 Variations and How to Ask Your Barber
The two block haircut is the cut behind most of the clean, floppy-on-top looks you see on Korean actors and idols. It is simple once you see how it is built: the sides and back are cut short, the top is left long, and the two sections are deliberately not blended. The long top falls over the short sides like a curtain, which is where the name comes from.
This guide explains how it differs from an undercut, six common versions, what to tell your barber, and how to style it in a few minutes.
What is a two block haircut?
The head is split into two “blocks”. The lower block (sides and back) is clipped short, usually a #2 to #4 guard. The upper block (top and crown) is kept long, often 10–15 cm, so it can hang down and cover the shorter hair underneath.
The key detail is that there is no fade between the two. When the top is down, you barely see the short part. When you push the top back or tuck it behind your ears, the disconnection shows.
Two block vs undercut
| Two block | Undercut | |
|---|---|---|
| Side length | Short, but usually not skin | Often shaved very close |
| Top length | Long enough to cover the sides | Varies, often slicked back |
| How it is worn | Top falls down over the sides | Top pushed back to show the contrast |
| Overall look | Soft and natural | Sharp and high-contrast |
| Grow-out | Grows out gently | Sides look messy quickly |
6 two block variations
1. Classic two block
Sides at a #3, top around 12 cm, worn down with a light fringe. The most versatile version, and the safest first try.
2. Two block with comma hair
The fringe is curled inward at the front so it looks like a comma. It needs a round brush or a small curling iron each morning, but it is the most recognisable K-drama look.
3. Two block with middle part
The top is split in the centre and falls to both sides. It suits oval and long faces and works well with slightly wavy hair. See our middle part guide for styling tips.
4. Short two block
The top is kept around 6–8 cm. It still covers the upper sides but needs much less styling, which makes it a good school or office option.
5. Textured two block
The barber point-cuts the top so it breaks into separate pieces. Good for thick hair that otherwise looks heavy and helmet-like.
6. Two block with perm
A soft down perm or wave perm on the top adds movement to very straight hair. Expect a salon visit of 1.5–2 hours and a result that lasts 2–3 months.
How to ask your barber
Bring a front and a side photo, then say:
“Two block cut. Sides and back at a number 3 with no fade into the top. Leave about 12 centimetres on top so it covers the sides when it falls down. Texture the top lightly.”
If your barber starts blending the sides into the top, stop them. A blend turns it into a regular short-back-and-sides.
Who it suits
- Straight or slightly wavy hair: falls naturally over the sides. Very curly hair tends to stand up instead of draping.
- Thick hair: the short sides remove the bulk that usually makes thick hair look wide.
- Round or square faces: the height and length on top lengthen the face.
5-minute styling routine
- Start with damp, towel-dried hair.
- Blow-dry the top forward and slightly down, using your fingers or a round brush to curve the fringe.
- Add a small amount of light cream or matte paste, worked through from the back of the head forward.
- Push the sides of the top down so they cover the short block underneath.
Maintenance
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Clean up the sides | Every 3–4 weeks |
| Trim the top | Every 6–8 weeks |
| Perm refresh (if permed) | Every 2–3 months |
FAQ
How long does hair need to be for a two block?
About 10 cm on top for the classic version. Shorter versions start at 6 cm, but they will not fully cover the sides.
Is the two block the same as a Korean mullet?
No. A two block is short at the back. A Korean mullet keeps length at the nape. Compare them in our Korean mullet guide.
Can I get a two block with thin hair?
Yes, but keep the sides a little longer (a #4) so the contrast does not expose the scalp, and ask for less texturising on top.
