Recommended Duty-Free Shop Guide!
When thinking about the joys of traveling in Korea, food, beauty, and above all, shopping are musts.
Especially recently, with the weak yen (円安) continuing, more travelers are taking advantage of duty-free shops to shop smartly and save money.
Here, we’ll introduce the recommended duty-free shops in 2025 and key tips for enjoying your shopping experience!
What Are Recommended Duty-Free Shops in Korea?
In Korea, there are not only airport duty-free shops but also large downtown duty-free stores.
At these duty-free shops, you can enjoy shopping at tax-free prices simply by presenting your passport as a foreign visitor.
Examples of items you can buy tax-free:
- Cosmetics (Korean and international brands)
- Perfumes and skincare products
- Sunglasses, watches, and luxury bags
- Snacks, Korean ginseng, Korean seaweed, and more
2025 Recommended Duty-Free Shops Ranking (Seoul Focus)
1st Place: Lotte Duty Free, Myeongdong Main Branch
One of the most popular spots even for first-time visitors to Korea. This large duty-free store is located in the same building as Lotte Hotel, making its location very convenient.
Highlights:
- Many staff who can speak Japanese
- Wide range of products, from Korean cosmetics to Louis Vuitton
- Just a short walk from Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station
👉 Particularly popular for purchasing premium Korean cosmetics like HERA, IOPE, and Whoo at affordable prices.
2nd Place: Shilla Duty Free
Recommended for those who want to shop leisurely in a calm atmosphere with a rich selection of luxury brands. A free shuttle bus operates from Myeongdong.
Highlights:
- Carries new arrivals from brands like Dior and Chanel
- Many cosmetic samples provided
- Relatively fewer foreign tourists, making it quieter
🧴 Popular for Korean skincare products such as Dr.Jart+ and Sulwhasoo
3rd Place: Hyundai Department Store Duty Free (Dongdaemun)
Located inside the Hyundai City Outlet in Dongdaemun, this duty-free store is especially popular among those who love fashion and cosmetics.
Highlights:
- Carries many local brands
- Open late on some days, making it convenient
- You can enjoy cafes and restaurants alongside shopping
👗 Easy to find limited-edition items from Stylenanda and 3CE
Tips for Shopping at Duty-Free Stores (2025 Edition)
- Passport and flight information are essential
Duty-free purchases require proof that you are departing the country. You must present your passport and flight details (e-ticket, etc.) when buying items. - Collect purchased items at the airport
Even if you buy at a downtown duty-free store, you cannot take the items with you immediately. Purchases are picked up at the airport pick-up counter on the day of departure. - Advance reservation via apps is advantageous
Stores like Lotte and Shilla allow you to reserve products through their dedicated apps. You may get online-only discounts, point accumulation, or gift promotions. Examples:- Lotte Duty Free app: Up to 15% off + Japanese language support
- Shilla Duty Free app: Member-only gift sets
- How to pick up at Incheon Airport
- Check in and pass through immigration
- Go to the Duty Free Pick-Up Counter
- Present your receipt or the QR code from the app
- Collect your items and proceed to your boarding gate
Top 5 Popular Duty-Free Items for Japanese Tourists (2025)
| Rank | Product Category | Popular Brand Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Korean Cosmetics | HERA, rom&nd, CLIO |
| 2nd | Skincare | Sulwhasoo, Dr.Jart+, The History of Whoo |
| 3rd | Health Supplements (e.g., Korean ginseng) | CheongKwanJang |
| 4th | Snacks & Souvenirs | Market O, Orion, Korean seaweed |
| 5th | Fashion Accessories | Gentle Monster, Korea-exclusive items |
Summary: Make the Most of Duty-Free Shopping for a Smart Korean Trip!
One of the joys of traveling in Korea is duty-free shopping, which can be very economical if used wisely.
Especially Korean cosmetics and limited-edition items are often much cheaper than in Japan, offering a great opportunity for souvenirs or gifts.
To maximize efficiency:
- Reserve in advance via apps
- Check airport pick-up procedures
This way, you can enjoy shopping without wasting time or money during your trip.
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