Shopping in Korea

Traditional markets vs department stores

Korea’s big traditional markets (Namdaemun, Gwangjang in Seoul, Jagalchi in Busan, Dongmun in Jeju) are great for cheap food, dried goods, fabric, and an authentic taste of old Korea. Bring cash; many stalls don’t take card.

Department stores (Lotte, Shinsegae, Hyundai) and shopping streets (Myeongdong, Hongdae) have brand boutiques, K-beauty flagships, and global fashion at international prices.

Bargaining

In modern shops, malls, and most market stalls — no. Prices are fixed. Trying to bargain can be uncomfortable.

Exceptions where light bargaining is acceptable: - Older markets selling fabric, ginseng, or tourist souvenirs - When buying multiple items from one vendor - At Dongdaemun’s late-night wholesale clothing market

Tax refund

If you’re a tourist staying less than 6 months and spend over 30,000 KRW at a single store with a “Tax Free” sign, you can claim back the 10% VAT.

Two ways: - Instant refund: small purchases under 700,000 KRW, refunded at checkout - Airport refund: ask for a tax refund form, get goods stamped by customs at the airport, claim cash or credit at the refund counter

Convenience stores

CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, and Emart24 are everywhere and stocked surprisingly well. Beyond snacks, they offer:

• T-money recharges
• ATM with foreign card support
• Microwave-able full meals (try samgak gimbap, instant noodles)
• Phone chargers, umbrellas, basic toiletries
• Soju and beer at the lowest prices

K-beauty haul

Korea is the global capital of beauty products. Stack these stores:

• Olive Young — Korean equivalent of Sephora; everything, often with tax-free pricing
• Aritaum, Innisfree, Etude — individual brand flagships
• Wholesale floors at Lotte Department Store basements

Things to bring home

Popular among travelers: kimchi (vacuum-packed), Korean instant ramyeon, hangang masks, gochujang in tube, ginseng products, hanji paper goods, K-pop merch, custom name stamps (dojang).