What to Buy When Traveling to South Korea?

Are you wondering what to buy when traveling to South Korea? With countless options, from local specialties and famous cosmetics to unique souvenirs, choosing the right gift is not simple. Check out the suggestions below from iVISA to find meaningful gifts, perfect for giving to your loved ones.

Why Buy Souvenirs and Local Specialties in South Korea?

Vietnamese culture has long been associated with gift-giving as a way to show thoughtfulness. Therefore, on every trip, whether domestic or international, buying a souvenir or local specialty as a gift is always valued.

Benefits of Buying Souvenirs

Have you ever wondered, “What should I buy when traveling to South Korea?” to make it both meaningful and valuable? Souvenirs not only help you keep memorable moments from your trip but also serve as a bridge to connect with family, friends, and colleagues. A thoughtful gift can bring joy, surprise, and show your care. At the same time, choosing gifts also allows you to experience South Korean culture more deeply.

Characteristics of Korean Gifts

Korean gifts are diverse, and each type is suitable for different recipients. If you want to choose gifts for family or older people, ginseng, herbal tea, or nutritious foods will be ideal. These products not only care for health but also show respect and thoughtfulness. For young people, gifts like albums, lightsticks, or cosmetics will bring joy and match their interests. Thanks to this diversity, you can easily find meaningful gifts suitable for each recipient you want to give.

What to Buy When Traveling to South Korea? Top Must-Have Gifts

As iVISA shared above, Korea offers countless choices for international tourists when buying gifts. Each gift not only reflects the giver’s thoughtfulness but also tells the story of the trip, evoking emotions and special memories. Below are popular gifts, worth buying and suitable for each type of recipient.

Cheong Kwan Jang Ginseng and Red Ginseng

Cheong Kwan Jang ginseng and red ginseng are traditional gifts, rich in health and spiritual value. These products are suitable for grandparents, parents, or older friends. Red ginseng capsules or nourishing gift boxes not only help boost the body and strengthen immunity but also convey meaningful health wishes. When looking at this gift, recipients will feel your care and sincere heart.

Packaged Kimchi

If you are wondering “What to buy when traveling to South Korea,” kimchi is definitely an essential answer. As a culinary ambassador representing Korean flavor, packaged kimchi is convenient and preserves the authentic taste of this traditional dish. Each jar of kimchi tells the story of warm family meals and the rich culinary culture of Korea. It is an ideal gift for everyone, especially those who love food and want to enjoy Korean flavors at home.

Korean Cosmetics

If you buy gifts for young people or beauty enthusiasts, Korean cosmetics will be the top choice. Korea is famous for brands such as Laneige, Sulwhasoo, and Innisfree, offering products that are both effective and stylish. Particularly, prices in Korea are usually 30 – 40% cheaper than in Vietnam, while still ensuring high quality, making the gift both meaningful and practical.

Tteokbokki Rice Cakes and Seaweed

If you buy gifts for children, friends, or food lovers, rice cakes and seaweed are ideal choices. These specialties are easy to store, priced from 80,000 to 200,000 VND. Compared to snacks in Vietnam, crispy spicy rice cakes and sweet-salty seaweed offer a more interesting experience, immediately reminding one of enjoying tasty treats in Korean dramas.

Read more: Things to Know Before Coming to South Korea

Traditional Korean Teas

If you are thinking about what to buy when traveling to South Korea to give to adults, colleagues, or partners, traditional Korean teas are refined and meaningful. Teas like Yuja‑cha, ginger tea, or red ginseng tea bring gentle, warm flavors that help the recipient relax while enjoying. Each tea pack is compact, easy to carry, and offers a special experience of Korean culture. It is a gift that expresses care, politeness, and refinement, very suitable for giving on important occasions.

Trusted Places to Shop in South Korea

When wondering “What to buy when traveling to South Korea,” you may also ask: where to buy to ensure trustworthiness, quality, and reasonable prices? Choosing the right place helps you save money, avoid counterfeit goods, and have a complete shopping experience. Below are places highly rated by international tourists:

Lotte Mart and E-mart

If you are looking for places to buy a variety of gifts in South Korea, from specialties, cosmetics to souvenirs, Lotte Mart and E-mart are ideal. All products are genuine, prices are stable, and international tourists can get tax refunds for purchases over 30,000 KRW. With this refund, you can save about 5 – 10% on shopping.

Namdaemun Market

If you want to experience traditional shopping in Korea, Namdaemun Market is ideal. Here you can find unique souvenirs, delicate handicrafts, and small jewelry. Prices are usually 10 – 20% cheaper than normal stores, especially if you know how to bargain. Visiting Namdaemun, you can not only choose meaningful gifts but also feel the vibrant, lively local culture. This is also the perfect answer to the question of what to buy when traveling to South Korea.

Myeongdong

If you are looking for a trusted place to buy Korean cosmetics, Myeongdong is the best choice. This busy street is full of major stores of Laneige, Innisfree, Sulwhasoo, and many trendy brands. You can easily find authentic products with plenty of promotions that other areas rarely have. Myeongdong is especially suitable for buying gifts for friends, young people, or beauty lovers, as the selection is abundant and testers are available. After shopping, you can stop at a café, take some photos at famous check-in spots, and fully enjoy the Seoul vibe often seen in K-dramas and music videos.

Tips for Safe Shopping in South Korea

When researching what to buy when traveling to South Korea, preparing some shopping tips will help you choose quality gifts, save money, and enjoy your trip fully. Below are practical notes from iVISA:

Check QR Codes and Anti-Counterfeit Seals

When buying cosmetics, health supplements, or popular Korean products, check QR codes, anti-counterfeit seals, and expiration dates. Major brands like Laneige, Innisfree, and Sulwhasoo provide online product verification codes to ensure authenticity. This protects your health and ensures the gift is genuine. Also, pay attention to the product origin; authentic products are usually made in Korea with barcodes starting with 880.

Pack Perishable or Strong-Smelling Foods Carefully

Specialties such as kimchi, ginseng, or tea should be vacuum-packed or multilayer-wrapped. Many stores in Seoul even offer professional gift-wrapping services, convenient for tourists buying in bulk.

Bargain in Traditional Markets

At traditional markets like Namdaemun or Dongdaemun, bargaining can save 10 – 20% and provide a shopping experience closer to local culture. You will feel the lively pace similar to scenes in Korean dramas.

Read more: Discover South Korea’s Unique Festivals

Smart Payment

Bring international credit cards (Visa or Mastercard) for fast and flexible payment and to avoid risks with cash, especially if you are unfamiliar with Korean won denominations. Also, use a T-money card for public transport. Combining these two makes managing expenses easier and saves time throughout your shopping and exploration journey.

Best Time for Shopping Souvenirs

According to the Korea Tourism Organization, each international tourist spends about 1,320 USD on shopping and souvenirs, accounting for nearly 30% of total trip costs. Compared to buying gifts in Vietnam, this spending is for items full of Korean culture, so choosing the right time to shop is important.

At the end of the year, especially in November, is the ideal time to hunt for “great deals” when traveling to Korea. In major shopping centers like Lotte, Shinsegae, or busy shopping streets like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, many products are discounted up to 50%, much cheaper than stores in Vietnam. Even without sales, cosmetics and clothing prices in Korea are lower as they do not yet include import taxes. This is your chance to experience Korean shopping while bringing back meaningful gifts and saving money.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping in South Korea

Is Online Shopping in Korea Safe?

For those busy with sightseeing and short on time, online shopping is ideal. Trusted Korean e-commerce platforms like Coupang, Gmarket, and 11Street provide all popular items. You can usually receive your order within one day.

What Should I Consider When Buying Electronics?

If planning to buy electronics such as phones, cameras, or power banks, check carefully. Some devices only have a warranty in Korea, so ensure they can be used normally in Vietnam.

Can I Return Items If Unsatisfied?

Most large stores allow returns within 7 – 14 days if products are intact and receipts are kept. However, small stores or traditional markets have limited return options. Therefore, check quality and consider carefully before buying to avoid trouble later.

We hope with these suggestions from iVISA, you have answered the question, “What to buy when traveling to South Korea,” and are ready for an exciting gift-hunting adventure. A small gift, filled with thoughtfulness, is the perfect way to share the joy of your trip with loved ones.

Are you planning to apply for a visa or need advice on your Korea itinerary? Don’t hesitate to contact iVISA for fast visa South Korea support!

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