14 Must-have Korean Souvenirs Your Friends Will Adore

The best way to remember a place is by buying some memorable souvenirs. Souvenirs are also for gift-giving purposes, and they are symbolic, serving as proof of your love and generosity. This tradition, though age-old, is still very much in vogue.

When you visit South Korea, you’ll find a plethora of unique and memorable items to bring home. From traditional handicrafts to trendy K-pop merchandise, there’s something for everyone. Read on for a complete guide to the various options you have for souvenirs in South Korea!

Also Read: Best Family Friendly Airbnbs in Myeongdong, South Korea – 2024

1. Korean cosmetics

Image credit: Stin Shen

South Korean cosmetics are the in-thing right now, and they make the best gift for your beauty-conscious friends. If you’re not sure which brands to buy, you can’t go wrong with these cult Korea beauty brands – ranging from Innisfree to Laneige. BB creams are a popular choice, but don’t forget to explore other must-have items like sheet masks, cushion compacts, and lip tints. Be sure to check the reviews before buying a cosmetic product to make sure that you’re only getting the good stuff!

2. Skincare products

Even if you haven’t been to South Korea, you’ve probably heard of your friends raving about spending hours in Olive Young. Known for their glowing glass skin, Koreans have a reputation for creating exceptional skincare products that tourists can’t get enough of.

Stores like Olive Young are treasure troves for skincare essentials, offering everything from sheet masks to serums, moisturizers, and more. It’s the perfect place to stock up on top-notch Korean skincare!

3. Cute socks and animal hats

Image credit: ilker ender

South Korean shops offer a wide variety of socks for sale. You might find it funny, but really, quirky socks are great for souvenirs, especially for young kids or your immature friends. The images printed on the socks can range from ramen brands to animation and cartoon characters. Animal hats are equally weird as souvenirs, but they are oh-so-adorable.

4. Packed and dried Seaweeds

Fresh seaweeds are commonly sold on the many beaches in South Korea. For souvenirs, however, you might want to consider those available in dried and packed form. They are light, can be preserved for some time and will go straight to the stomach of your loved ones. The oil/salted varieties taste best and are easily available in grocery stores and supermarkets.

5. K-pop paraphernalia

If your friends like Korean dramas and K-pop, you’re in the perfect place to get them the most awesome gifts. There are calendars, socks, notebooks, bags and all sorts of merch with your famous K-pop stars printed on them. Let’s not forget key chains, posters, mini cards, and coffee mugs! Get ready for a blast of K-pop every time you enter a souvenir shop.

6. Mini pouches

Mini pouches are practical gifts and they can also serve as packages to put your smaller gifts. Pouches are great budget-friendly souvenir options, and one can never have too many pouches, right?

7. Stationery

In South Korea, you can find the cutest pens, markers, notebooks and planners. Make a trip to an ArtBox outlet to grab some affordable stationery for yourself and your friends. While at it, grab some stickers too because why not? You should hand it to the Koreans for their creativity in churning out cuteness-overload stationery.

Also Read: Seoul Shopping Guide for Bargain Hunters

8. Soju

Soju is the famous traditional Korean alcohol, which is something you should definitely try when in South Korea. Try Jinro’s soju, which comes in iconic green bottles that are readily available even in the local supermarkets. If you’re planning to put them in your luggage, make sure that you don’t go over the duty-free allowance. Otherwise, just buy them from the airport before flying home.

Also Read: Seoul Guide to Drinking: Where to Go for Soju and Makgeolli

9. Korean tea

Tea is a souvenir that is infused with tradition as well as flavour. Traditional teas like omija (5 taste tea) and meshil (sweet plum) are still widely consumed by Koreans. You should most definitely make a stop to traditional teahouses (also known as chatjip) to experience the Korean tea-drinking culture. Other than bringing home tea as souvenirs, consider getting the whole tea set if you know any tea-junkies back home.

10. Kitchenwares

Image credit: Republic of Korea

Another souvenir option, perfect for those who love unique kitchenwares, are Korean bowls and cutleries. A good place to get them in Seoul is Namdaemun Market, which actually has a kitchenware shopping zone. If you’re travelling to Busan, head to Busanjin Market.

11. Hanji

Image credit: Ian

Hanji basically refers to products made from traditional Korean handmade paper. The process of making this paper from the barks of mulberry tree dates back to hundreds of years and was historically used to cover the doors and windows so that the houses remain warm. Today it is used for making paper dolls, beautiful table lamps, hanging lamps and stationery. Hanji can be used to decorate houses, too. However, they can easily tear, so be careful and pack them well.

12. Korean snacks

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When in South Korea, you’ll be spoilt for choices of snacks to bring home as souvenirs. Packaged kimchi is one such snack, and the fried ones taste best. You can also get dried squid, which are sold with dripping sauce, or chocolates and brownies. Visit the nearest Lotte Mart for a huge variety of snacks, such as Tteokbokki tubes, rice cakes crackers, and honey puffs. Your friends will love you.

Also read: 14 Must-Buy Food Items from Korea’s LOTTE Mart

13. Electronics

South Korea is a great place to get cheap and high-quality electronics, and the best ones to get as souvenirs are of course those in cute, mini sizes. MP3 players, earpieces, USBs – you name it. Head to Yongsan Electronics Market for five storeys of electronic shops and remember to bargain hard!

14. Embroidery

Embroidered pouches, wallets, and aprons make wonderful souvenirs from South Korea. These handcrafted pieces, often featuring delicate floral or animal motifs, are not just beautiful but also functional. Despite the decline of traditional Korean embroidery, a few dedicated artists continue to keep this timeless art form alive.

Also read: 13 Tips for Travelling Around South Korea on a Budget

Excited to head to South Korea? Your friends and family are just as thrilled, secretly hoping you’ll bring back some unique Korean souvenirs for them. Luckily, Korea is a treasure trove of affordable and meaningful keepsakes. From traditional crafts to trendy snacks, there’s something for everyone—and it won’t burn a hole in your pocket. Happy shopping!