What to Buy When Traveling to South Korea? The Best Places for Shopping to Save the Most Money

Travel to Japan and South Korea has always been popular due to low cost, proximity, and cultural affinity. Especially when it comes to Korean dramas, variety shows, and Hallyu, women can hardly control their desire to go. Besides these, shopping is also a must for women—it would be a shame to go abroad and return empty-handed. So what to buy when traveling to South Korea, and where to shop to save the most money? Follow our editor's travel notes to find out.

First, what to buy when traveling to South Korea? Of course, Korean cosmetics and health supplements are a must. Korean cosmetics are known for their high cost performance and reliable quality. Especially at duty-free shops, besides Korean brands, various international luxury cosmetics also enjoy great discounts, making them always popular. Recently, health supplements often seen in Korean dramas, such as CheongKwanJang red ginseng products, are perfect for personal use or gifts, and are truly popular items.

Where are the best places to shop in South Korea? Here are three popular types. First, duty-free shops are the top choice. You only need your passport and phone—most duty-free shops now support mobile payments, making it very convenient, and the prices are the most favorable.

However, due to the pandemic, shopping at airport duty-free shops has been hindered. But duty-free shops in downtown Seoul are still operating normally. If you have enough time, you can visit them. The discounts at Shilla, Shinsegae, and Hyundai duty-free shops vary. It's better to understand them in advance to save time and enjoy more benefits.

Besides duty-free shops, some famous pharmacy and beauty stores like Olive Young and Lalavla are also very popular. They are great places to buy Korean cosmetics because they regularly offer big discounts, sometimes even cheaper than duty-free shops. Olive Young has recently been rated as a must-visit place for traveling to South Korea.

Third are famous shopping districts like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun. Not only do they have the latest fashion trends, but various cute little shops are also highlights. Moreover, the duty-free shops and beauty stores mentioned above are concentrated in these areas, making them true shopping paradises.

After introducing great shopping spots, let me introduce some good cosmetics brands in South Korea. The first is ROUND LAB. The name may be unfamiliar, but you've likely heard of Dokdo Toner & Lotion. Known for high cost performance and gentle ingredients, it's a brand that Koreans also love.

Next is Jill Stuart, which is still relatively rare in China. It's an American designer brand popular in Japan. Buying it at duty-free shops is much cheaper than in China. Especially in Korean duty-free shops, with a wide range of products and high discount rates, it's also a must-buy item. Last year, the most popular item at duty-free shops was the five-color petal blush—Bloom Mix Blush Compact, which excels in both design and performance.

Finally, there is the familiar brand 'Whoo', the most representative brand of LG Household & Health Care. It is positioned as high-end, so despite the high price, it remains very popular.

Actually, don't stress too much about what to buy when traveling to South Korea. As long as you're happy, that's enough. And if you can find bargains, even better.