Seoul Shopping Guide 2025: Where to Find Bargains and Deals

During my month-long stay in Seoul, I quickly learned that shopping here isn’t for the weak. I naively thought I could just “browse” on my first visit, only to walk out hauling multiple bags because everything was just too affordable to resist. Are you looking to score the best deals and shop like a pro? Here’s everything you need to know before flying in!

Also read: 8 Insider Seoul Travel Tips Singaporeans Must Know in 2025

1. Get a FREE colour analysis before you shop in Seoul

If you’ve been on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube lately, chances are you’ve come across colour analysis videos. Before diving into Seoul’s vibrant shopping scene, why not find out which colours suit you best? 

Head to Beauty Play in Hongdae for a free colour analysis session. You’ll discover the best shades for your skin tone, clothing choices, and even jewellery selection so you shop smarter and avoid impulse buys that don’t suit you!

2. Shop beyond Olive Young for K-beauty bargains

K-beauty lovers, we know Olive Young is your go-to, but don’t stop there! Check out Costco Korea for bundle deals and jumbo-sized beauty products at unbeatable prices.

And if you’re a fan of affordable yet high-quality finds, don’t overlook Daiso Korea, it’s on a whole different level compared to what you’re used to in Singapore or even Japan. You’ll find everything from K-beauty alternatives to lifestyle goods for as low as 1,000krw (~S$1).

TripZilla Tip: Keep an eye out for exclusive beauty brands like Twinkle Pop, Drop Be, and TAG. These are Daiso Korea’s in-house collaborations with top names like Clio Cosmetics, The Saem, and Too Cool For School, offering quality products at wallet-friendly prices!

3. Hunt for deals at Seoul’s underground shopping malls

No, I’m not talking about anything shady. Seoul’s underground malls are goldmines for budget-friendly fashion and accessories. For some of the best bargains in the city, head to Yeongdeungpo Underground Mall and Goto Mall. 

To give you an idea of the steals you can find, I snagged culottes, skirts, and dresses for as low as 1,000-1,500krw (~S$1-S$1.50) — yes, you read that right! And if you’re after trendy bags, plenty of stores offer every style imaginable for just 10,000krw (~S$10), including those ever-popular puffer bags that every typical Singaporean girl seems to have.

4. Shop at train stations around Seoul for unexpected finds

Train stations in Seoul aren’t just for commuting, they’re also great shopping spots! Many subway stations have small shops selling trendy accessories and everyday essentials. 

After searching high and low throughout Seoul, I found the elusive Binggrae banana milk and strawberry milk Jibbitz at one of these stores in Euljiro. So next time you’re waiting for your train, take a look around, you might score a hidden gem!

5. Pay by weight at thrift stores around Seoul

It wasn’t until I lived in Korea that I discovered the pay-by-weight concept at thrift stores, something you don’t typically see in Singapore. Instead of fixed prices, these shops charge based on the weight of your haul, making it a budget-friendly way to score unique finds, especially if you’re petite like me and your clothes don’t weigh that much. 

Also read: 10 Best Seoul Thrift Stores, Vintage Shops, & Flea Markets

Stores like Gram Deal and Myeongdong Vintage offer prices starting from 2,500 KRW per 100g (and it gets cheaper the more you buy), so the lighter your picks, the more you save!

6. Visit Seoul’s supermarkets for closing-time deals

If you’re planning to stock up on Korean snacks or fresh food, timing is everything. I quickly learned that Lotte Mart and Emart mark down their prices on fresh items like cooked food, sushi, banchan (side dishes), and bakery products after 7pm and 8pm respectively. 

It became the perfect solution for my late-night hunger pangs, as I could grab a snack (or even a full meal) for a fraction of the usual price at the Emart near where I lived.

TripZilla Tip: Large supermarkets Lotte Mart, Emart and Homeplus close on the second and fourth wednesday of every month to support traditional markets and smaller retailers so make sure to check out mom-and-pop stores on these days!

7. Experience Seoul’s midnight shopping scene

Night owls, rejoice! Shopping in Seoul doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Wholesale stores like Nyu Nyu, MIMILINE, and APM Place stay open until 5am, offering unbeatable deals on fashion and accessories. It’s the perfect way to experience Seoul’s vibrant after-hours energy without battling the crazy daytime crowds!

8. Claim your tax refund before leaving Korea

Don’t leave Seoul without claiming your tax refunds! Many stores offer immediate tax refunds at the counter, but if you miss the in-store option, you can still process your refund at the airport before departure. Keep your receipts handy and enjoy some extra savings before heading home.

TripZilla Tip: For duty-free shopping without the hassle, use the Hyundai and Lotte Duty-Free apps to place orders online and pick up your purchases at the airport!

With these Seoul shopping tips, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the city’s retail scene like a local. Happy shopping and enjoy every deal that Seoul has to offer!