Shopping in South Korea
Guide to shopping, markets and popular stores
General shopping information
Payments and cards
- Most stores accept international credit/debit cards
- It's recommended to carry some cash for traditional markets and small shops
- Mobile payments (Samsung Pay, Apple Pay) are increasingly common
Tax Free and refunds
- Tourists can get VAT refunds (10%) on purchases over 30,000 KRW
- Look for the 'Global Tax Free' or 'Tax Refund' logo in stores
- Bring your passport for Tax Free procedures
Shopping hours
- Department stores: Generally 10:30 - 20:00
- Shopping malls: 10:00 - 22:00
- Traditional markets: 09:00 - 18:00 (some close on Sundays)
- Areas like Dongdaemun have 24h stores
Best buys in Korea
- Korean cosmetics (K-beauty)
- Electronics and gadgets
- Ginseng products and traditional teas
- K-fashion trendy clothing
- K-pop items and Korean culture
Popular shopping areas
Myeongdong
Shopping streetsSeoul's main shopping district, famous for fashion stores, Korean cosmetics, and street food stalls. Ideal for finding Korean beauty brands like Innisfree, Nature Republic, Etude House, and The Face Shop, as well as international stores.
Best for:
Tips:
- Prices tend to be slightly higher than in other areas due to its tourist popularity
- Cosmetic stores usually give free samples with each purchase
- Visit at night to enjoy the lights and atmosphere
Dongdaemun
Traditional marketsKorea's largest wholesale and retail fashion market, with over 30,000 shops spread across various shopping centers. Many establishments are open 24 hours. The area is also known for the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a futuristic building designed by Zaha Hadid.
Best for:
Tips:
- The best prices are obtained when buying multiple garments
- Some wholesale stores require minimum purchase
- Practice bargaining, especially when buying several pieces
Namdaemun Market
Traditional marketsKorea's oldest traditional market (since 1414) with over 10,000 shops selling everything from clothing and souvenirs to ginseng and traditional food. It's an excellent place to experience authentic Korean commercial culture.
Best for:
Tips:
- The market is organized by sections, each specializing in specific products
- Don't hesitate to bargain, it's part of the experience
- Try the famous fish cake Eomuk (어묵) at the food stalls
Gangnam Shopping District
Shopping streetsKnown worldwide thanks to the song 'Gangnam Style', this upscale district is home to luxury stores, department stores, and exclusive shopping centers like Galleria and COEX Mall. It's the perfect place for high-end shopping and designer boutiques.
Best for:
Tips:
- COEX Mall is one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia
- You can find the Starfield Library inside COEX, an incredible place for photos
- Prices are higher than in other areas of Seoul
Hongdae Shopping Street
Shopping streetsNear Hongik University, this area is known for its youthful and creative atmosphere. Full of independent shops, emerging designer boutiques, themed cafes, and art stores. Ideal for finding unique clothing and accessories at reasonable prices.
Best for:
Tips:
- On weekends there are street artists and flea markets
- Many shops offer unique pieces made by local designers
- It's a good place to find original and non-traditional souvenirs
Lotte Department Store
Department storesOne of Korea's most prestigious department store chains, with flagship stores in Seoul (Myeongdong, Jamsil) and Busan. Offers luxury brands, Korean and international fashion, cosmetics, and extensive food and restaurant areas in the basement.
Best for:
Tips:
- Lower floors (basements) usually have gourmet markets with traditional and modern food
- By presenting your passport you can get discounts and tax-free on many products
- Look for the sale items section for better prices
Jagalchi Market
Traditional marketsSouth Korea's largest fish market, located next to Busan's port. Famous for its fresh seafood and the possibility of buying seafood products and tasting them prepared on the spot. The definitive experience for seafood lovers.
Best for:
Tips:
- The first floor is for buying, the second for eating what you've bought or prepared dishes
- The best time to visit is early in the morning to see the greatest variety
- Vendors can clean and prepare your purchases to take away or consume
Gwangbokdong
Shopping streetsOne of Busan's main shopping streets, with a mix of fashion stores, cosmetics, and shopping centers. Also known as 'Busan Fashion Street', it's a popular place for outdoor shopping with more affordable prices than in Seoul.
Best for:
Tips:
- Nearby is BIFF Square, famous for its food alley and celebrity star
- Prices tend to be lower than in Seoul for similar products
- There are also several traditional Korean food restaurants in the area
Shinsegae Centum City
Department storesRegistered in the Guinness Book of Records as the world's largest shopping center, this huge complex in Busan offers a luxury shopping experience. In addition to stores, it has a spa, cinema, indoor golf course, and ice skating rink.
Best for:
Tips:
- It's worth dedicating an entire day to take advantage of all the facilities
- The basement food court offers a wide variety of international and Korean cuisine
- The top floor terrace has panoramic views of the city
Need more information about shopping in Korea?
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