South Korea is one of the most exciting destinations in the world for shopping, especially if you love K-beauty, K-pop, trendy fashion, delicious food, and adorable stationery. For tourists, the best purchases are lightweight, unique items that reflect Korean culture and fit easily into your suitcase. In this article, we’ll go through the top 10 things to buy in Korea as a tourist, with practical tips included so your souvenirs feel meaningful rather than impulsive.
1. K-beauty skincare products
K-beauty skincare consistently tops the list of things to buy in Korea, thanks to its innovation, affordability, and impressive results. From low-pH cleansers and hydrating toners to ampoules, sheet masks, and sunscreen, Korean beauty stores are packed with products designed to achieve the famous “glass skin” look. Tourists love Korean skincare brands because they focus on targeted solutions using ingredients like centella asiatica, snail mucin, heartleaf, and probiotics. Many shops in Myeongdong and Hongdae offer travel sets, buy-one-get-one deals, and instant tax refunds, making it easy to stock up without overspending.
2. Korean makeup and lip tints
Korean makeup is especially popular for its lightweight textures and natural finish. Cushions, foundations, and concealers are designed to look fresh and radiant rather than heavy, which makes them ideal for everyday wear and travel photos. Lip tints are a must-buy, known for their long-lasting color, comfortable formulas, and flattering MLBB shades. You will also find playful limited-edition packaging featuring characters like Kakao Friends, Line Friends, BT21, and Disney, making these products great souvenirs or gifts.
3. K-pop albums and official merchandise
For music lovers, K-pop albums and official merch are some of the most meaningful things to buy in Korea. Popular shopping areas like Myeongdong and Hongdae are filled with stores selling albums, light sticks, photocards, posters, and exclusive collaboration items. Buying K-pop albums in Korea often comes with special perks such as pre-order gifts or fan-sign lottery entries that are difficult to access overseas. Even casual fans enjoy bringing home an album or light stick as a lasting reminder of their trip.
4. Cute Korean stationery and character goods
Korea is a paradise for cute stationery and character items. Shops like Artbox, 10×10, and large bookstores sell endless varieties of notebooks, pens, stickers, and planners featuring animals, food designs, and popular characters. These items are affordable, lightweight, and perfect for small gifts. Beyond stationery, you will find the same characters on socks, mugs, phone accessories, and keychains, turning everyday objects into charming souvenirs from Korea.
5. Korean snacks, ramen, and sweets
Korean snacks are some of the most fun souvenirs to buy, letting you relive the flavors of your trip back home. Popular choices include honey butter chips, seaweed snacks, Choco Pie, banana-flavored treats, turtle chips, and regional specialties from convenience stores. Instant ramen is another favorite, especially limited-edition flavors or spicier versions that may not be available abroad. When packing food items, make sure to follow your country’s customs rules and place them securely in your checked luggage.
6. Traditional Korean souvenirs and crafts
Traditional Korean items offer a beautiful contrast to modern shopping finds. Popular souvenirs include hanbok keychains, norigae ornaments, folding fans, celadon pottery, and hanji paper products. Insadong and traditional markets are the best places to shop for these items, offering everything from affordable keepsakes to high-quality handmade crafts. Many tourists choose one or two elegant pieces for home decor as a subtle reminder of Korean culture.
7. Korean fashion and streetwear
Korean fashion is known for being trendy yet practical, making it a favorite among tourists. Shopping areas like Hongdae, Ewha, and Myeongdong offer stylish clothing such as oversized hoodies, pleated skirts, knitwear, and minimalist basics inspired by K-dramas and idols. Many boutiques sell unique designs that are hard to find overseas, helping your wardrobe stand out once you return home. Since Korea has four distinct seasons, you can also shop for seasonal items depending on when you visit.
8. Korean tea, ginseng, and wellness products
Wellness items like Korean tea and ginseng are thoughtful purchases, especially for family members or health-conscious friends. Korea is famous for ginseng, available in forms such as roots, extracts, candies, and tonics. Traditional teas like green tea, barley tea, citron tea, and jujube tea are widely available and easy to pack. With long shelf lives and cultural significance, these products let you recreate comforting Korean café moments at home.
9. Soju, makgeolli, and local drinks
Korean alcohol is a popular souvenir for travelers who want to remember nights spent at barbecue restaurants or street food tents. Soju comes in many fruity flavors like peach, green grape, grapefruit, and yogurt, often at much lower prices than overseas. Makgeolli, a lightly sparkling rice wine, is another iconic Korean drink. When purchasing alcohol, always check airline baggage rules and customs allowances to ensure you can bring it home without issues.
10. Tech gadgets and phone accessories
As a tech-forward country, Korea offers plenty of stylish gadgets and accessories that appeal to tourists. Wireless earbuds, Bluetooth speakers, LED mirrors, beauty devices, and creative phone cases are widely available in shopping districts. Small accessories and USB-powered items are especially suitcase-friendly and make practical souvenirs. Many designs feature Korean characters or clean, minimalist aesthetics that reflect local trends.
Conclusion
To maximize your shopping experience, plan at least one dedicated afternoon or evening in popular districts like Myeongdong, Hongdae, or Insadong. Many shops stay open late, allowing you to shop comfortably after sightseeing. Always carry your passport for tax-free shopping, as many stores offer instant discounts at checkout. Finally, leave extra space in your luggage or bring a foldable bag because once you start buying K-beauty, snacks, and cute goods, it is surprisingly easy to exceed your original shopping plan.
