If you buy your souvenirs at the airport or a random street stall in Myeongdong, you are losing money. In reality, the best place to buy gifts is a local hypermarket. Specifically, Korean supermarket shopping is an essential part of the travel itinerary.
Places like Lotte Mart (Seoul Station) or E-Mart are massive warehouses filled with snacks, cosmetics, and liquor at local prices. Moreover, they offer instant tax refunds.
Are you ready to fill your suitcase? Welcome to Level 1. Let me tell you how I almost paid double for seaweed because I didn’t know better.
Level 1: The “Airport Price” Mistake
Flashback: My first trip to Seoul.
Initially, I waited until the last day to buy gifts for my family. I was in Myeongdong and saw a shop selling “Premium Korean Seaweed.” It looked fancy. Consequently, I bought 5 packs for 50,000 KRW ($40). I thought it was a fair price.
However, later that day, I visited Lotte Mart at Seoul Station because I had some time before my train. I walked into the food aisle and my jaw dropped. The exact same seaweed—maybe even a better brand—was selling for 15,000 KRW ($12) for a huge bundle of 20 packs.
Instantly, I realized I had been scammed by the “Tourist Premium.” I felt so foolish. Therefore, I vowed never to buy snacks from a souvenir shop again.
Level 2: The Solution (Smart Shopping Hacks)
I met Ssam at the food court, surrounded by grocery bags. “Ssam, why didn’t you tell me the mart is paradise?”
Ssam laughed. “Alice, Korean supermarket shopping is a sport. You need to know the rules.”
Here are the essential hacks for a successful haul:
1. Bring Your Passport (Instant Tax Refund)
This is the most important rule.
- Why: If you spend over 15,000 KRW (which is easy), you get an Immediate Tax Refund at the cashier.
- How: Give your passport to the cashier before you pay. The tax is deducted instantly. You don’t need to go to the airport customs desk.
2. The “1+1” Culture
Look at the price tags carefully.
- Magic Words: If you see “1+1” (One plus One) or “2+1”, it means you get a bonus item for free.
- Tip: This is perfect for buying gifts for coworkers.
3. Bring a Reusable Bag
Korean marts stopped providing free cardboard boxes and tape in some areas due to environmental laws.
- Action: Bring a large, strong eco-bag or suitcase. Yes, people bring empty suitcases to the mart. It is normal.
Level 3: Ssam’s Picks (Top 5 Souvenirs)
Don’t know what to buy? Here is the “Fail-Proof” list for Korean supermarket shopping.
1. HBAF Almonds
The undisputed king of souvenirs.
- Flavors: Honey Butter, Wasabi, Corn, Garlic Bread.
- Why: They come in small variety packs. Perfect for handing out to friends.
2. Korean Seaweed (Gim)
Lightweight and delicious.
- Tip: Buy the “Lunchbox size” packs. They are easy to distribute.
- Flavor: Look for Olive Oil or Green Tea flavor.
3. Maxim Gold (Instant Coffee)
The yellow sticks you see in K-Dramas.
- Taste: Sweet, creamy, and addictive. It is the soul food of Korean office workers.
4. Ramyeon Multipacks
Don’t buy Shin Ramyun (you have that at home).
- Try: Buldak (Carbonara flavor), Chapagetti, or Real Cheese Ramen.
- Price: A pack of 5 is usually under $4.
5. Soju & Makgeolli
Alcohol is incredibly cheap here.
- Soju: Buy the plastic (PET) bottles. They are lighter and won’t break in your luggage.
- Makgeolli: Make sure to buy “Pasteurized” (Sal-gyun) Makgeolli. Fresh ones will explode in the airplane.
Level 4: Deep Dive (Ssam’s Insight)
(Why Seoul Station?)
The Hub of Travelers
You might wonder, “Why is Lotte Mart Seoul Station so famous?” Historically, Seoul Station has been the gateway to the capital since 1900. Specifically, when the airport railroad (AREX) connected Incheon Airport directly to Seoul Station, this mart became the final stop for every tourist.
Therefore, this specific branch is unique. They have luggage storage, international shipping services, and staff who speak English, Japanese, and Chinese. It is designed for you.
Level 5: Ssam’s Secret Map (Location)
(Go here before the airport)
📍 Lotte Mart (Seoul Station Branch)
- What: The biggest and most foreigner-friendly mart.
- Location: Right next to KTX Seoul Station / AREX line.
- Map: Click for Naver Map
📍 E-Mart (Cheonggyecheon Branch)
- What: Less crowded, great for those staying in Dongdaemun.
- Location: Click for Naver Map
Alice’s Bottom Line: Empty Your Suitcase
Bring an empty suitcase. Seriously. You will walk in for a bottle of water and walk out with 5kg of almonds. Korean supermarket shopping is a trap, but it is a delicious one.
Survival Hangul: Shopping Edition
- “봉투 필요 없어요.” (I don’t need a plastic bag.)
- “택스 리펀 되나요?” (Is tax refund available?)
- “이거 1+1이에요?” (Is this buy one get one free?)
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