Korea Daiso VS Japan’s 100-Yen Shop: A Thorough Comparison!
During your trip or study abroad in Korea, have you ever thought, “I need that, but I don’t want to spend too much…” or “I suddenly need some daily necessities…”?
In those moments, our reliable friend is the “100-yen shop.”
However, did you know that although Korea’s Daiso and Japan’s 100-yen shops may look similar at first glance, the products on display and the most popular items are actually completely different?
In this article, I’ll thoroughly compare the differences between Korea and Japan’s 100-yen shops based on my real-life experiences living in Korea, and also introduce must-buy items for travelers and exchange students!
Korea’s “100-Yen Shop” Isn’t Actually 100 Yen!?
In Japan, the image of “Daiso = 100-yen shop” is common, but in Korea, things are a little different.
The Basic Price Is 1,000 Won (About 110 Yen)
In Korea as well, Daiso is overwhelmingly popular. However, unlike in Japan, not all items are priced at 100 yen (around 1,000 won).
You’ll find prices such as:
- 1,000 won (about 110 yen)
- 2,000 won (about 220 yen)
- 3,000 won (about 330 yen)
- 5,000 won (about 550 yen)
The price is clearly indicated on the display shelves or packaging, so be sure to check before buying!
Store Atmosphere & Layout Differences
◼️ Japan Daiso:
- Bright store interior
- Slightly lower, neatly organized shelves
- Items arranged clearly by category
- Emphasis on “cute” and “minimalist” designs
◼️ Korea Daiso:
- Many stores feel a bit narrower
- A much larger variety and higher volume of products
- Large sections for cosmetics and storage items
- Focus on practicality and functionality
Must-Buy! 10 Recommended Items from Korean “100-Yen Shops”
From here, let’s take a look at some items I personally found to be “something you can’t find in Japan” or “cheap and super convenient” while living in Korea.
① Korean-Style Stationery
- Notebooks and pens with Hangul designs
- Stickers and folders with idol-style illustrations
→ Perfect as souvenirs to take back to Japan!
② Mini-Size Korean Cosmetics
- Face masks (from 1,000 won per sheet)
- Mini lotions and creams
→ Sometimes even cheaper than Olive Young!
③ Stainless Steel Kitchenware
- Pot stands, strainers, tongs, etc.
→ Various sizes and shapes suited for Korean home cooking!
④ Cup Noodle Fork & Spoon Set
- Designed to fit perfectly into instant ramen cups
→ A fun way to experience Korea’s unique ramen culture
⑤ Laundry Nets & Sock Drying Accessories
- Compact size for single-person households
→ Perfect for one-room apartments with washing machines
⑥ Food Storage Containers (Including Kimchi Use)
- Wider variety of sizes than in Japan
→ Ideal for storing kimchi or side dishes
⑦ Eco Bags with Hangul Designs
- Popular for their Korean-style logo designs
→ Can also be used as fashion items
⑧ Nail & Self-Care Tools
- Nail files, eyebrow scissors, tweezers, etc.
→ Cheaper than in Japan, with surprisingly good quality
⑨ Winter Items (Heat Packs, Scarves, etc.)
- Huge selection once winter arrives
→ Highly recommended for exchange students — Korean winters are cold!
⑩ Korean Character Goods (e.g., Kakao Friends)
- Many Korea-exclusive items at affordable prices
→ Perfect as small gifts or souvenirs to share with friends
A Few “Things to Watch Out For” Compared to Japan
① There can be variation in quality
・Compared to Japanese 100-yen shops, some products may break more easily depending on the item.
→ Check carefully before opening!
② The large number of items can be confusing
・Stores can be somewhat crowded, making it hard to find what you’re looking for.
→ It’s a good idea to write down what you want beforehand.
③ Check whether prices include tax
In Korea, some items don’t clearly indicate whether tax is included, so the price at the register may differ.
→ Make sure to confirm the price tags.
Tips for Enjoying Korean “100-Yen Shops” Even More
- Cheaper than Korean goods in Shin-Okubo! → It’s more economical to buy them locally in Korea.
- New seasonal items arrive constantly → Check out the stores each spring, summer, autumn, and winter!
- Fun to hunt for “Japan-unreleased items” ◎
Recommended Store Areas for Japanese Travelers & Exchange Students
- Seoul Myeongdong: Large Daiso store, convenient to stop by while sightseeing
- Hongdae (ホンデ): Lots of trendy items for young people
- Gangnam: Many goods for businesspeople and storage items
- Busan Seomyeon (ソミョン): Large store popular with tourists
Summary: Korean Daiso Was a “Treasure Trove”!
Korea’s 100-yen shops are like a “living museum” where you can experience a culture and lifestyle different from Japan. With affordable prices, you can find everything from daily necessities to souvenirs, making it worth a visit during your trip or study abroad.
The charm isn’t just in the low prices, but also in the Korean-style designs and practicality. Be sure to find your own little treasures while in Korea!
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