2023 Seoul Duty-Free Shopping Tips! The Style of Gangnam Duty-Free in Korea, and a Complete Guide to Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free!
Living in Seoul, how could you skip duty-free shopping? But over the past three years, I believe many people, like me, haven't really been to physical duty-free stores. In addition, the status of Myeongdong as a shopping mecca has quietly shifted in recent years, gradually moving from the Myeongdong shopping district to the Line 2 and Gangnam area. So, when it comes to duty-free shopping in Seoul, are there any good duty-free stores in Gangnam? Today, I'll introduce you to the tourist attractions along Line 2 and the Gangnam duty-free store in Korea, which is also a must-visit on any Korea trip: Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free.
If you study or work in Korea, taking the subway is the best choice for commuting. The busiest line on the Seoul subway is the light green Line 2, which passes through several major shopping districts. Foreign tourists are probably most familiar with the Myeongdong area, where you can shop for a whole day. However, Seongsu is a newly emerging urban landmark in the past two years, developing rapidly, and has attracted the most popular trendy brands and niche designer labels. If you enjoy browsing vintage, creative, and quirky shops, you won't be disappointed here.
Next, we head to the world-famous Gangnam. Besides the stylish and upscale Apgujeong, the duty-free store located in Gangnam—Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free—is also worth keeping to yourself. This duty-free store is one of Korea's top four duty-free shops and is also situated on Seoul's core Line 2 subway.
As a duty-free shopping destination in Seoul, Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free has become the latest trendy landmark in the Gangnam area and a new shopping mecca. Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free is right next to Exit 5 of Line 2 subway station; a two- to three-minute walk will bring you to the department store. The duty-free section occupies the 8th to 10th floors, offering wide views, a simple yet luxurious decoration style that is bright and fresh, and a comfortable atmosphere that is very soothing. The duty-free store also has a complete range of brands, including well-known international luxury labels and popular trendy brands, plus year-round discounts and promotions, making it especially cost-effective.
After entering the store, you can take the dedicated duty-free elevator. The 8th floor mainly features luxury brands, gathering international luxury bags, clothing, jewelry, and watches. The 9th floor primarily sells skincare and beauty products, as well as fashion style brands—this is the floor for stocking up on cosmetics. The 10th floor has a membership service counter where you can register as a member, unlocking more discounts and benefits. If you have any issues while shopping, you can consult the staff here. The 10th floor also houses lifestyle and fashion brands such as electronics, liquor, Korean specialties, and trendy items—perfect for picking up gifts for family.
Oh, and one more important point: before you leave your country, you can download the Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free app. If your travel time is tight and you don't have much time to browse the store, you can shop online and pick up your items at designated locations at the airport—very convenient.
That's all I have to share about duty-free shopping in Seoul. Additionally, around Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free, there are many other malls worth visiting, such as COEX MALL, as well as Ktown4u for K-pop merchandise, and Starfield Library, all of which are very much worth a visit. There are also charming Instagram-worthy spots, etc. While shopping at Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free, you can easily achieve one-stop shopping and sightseeing.