If you're living in Korea or just visiting, knowing what to take home can be tricky. Here are 10 must-have Korean products that locals love—and that make perfect souvenirs or practical keepsakes for foreigners. We've included where to buy them and what you can expect to pay.
Why buy: Unlike wooden or plastic chopsticks, Korean stainless steel ones are durable, hygienic, and unique in design. Using them also improves your dexterity!
Where to buy: Daiso, E-Mart, or traditional markets like Namdaemun.
Price: ₩2,000–₩8,000 per set.
Why buy: Popular for boosting immunity and energy. Korean red ginseng is globally recognized for its quality.
Where to buy: CheongKwanJang stores, major department stores, or Korea Ginseng Corporation outlets.
Price: ₩20,000–₩150,000 depending on form (tea, extract, capsules).
Why buy: Lightweight, effective, and affordable skincare. Great for gifts or personal use.
Where to buy: Olive Young, Lalavla, Innisfree, or any skincare store.
Price: ₩1,000–₩3,000 each. Bundle sets are cheaper.
Why buy: Korean ramen is famous for its flavor and spice. Easy to pack and fun to share.
Where to buy: Any convenience store, Lotte Mart, or E-Mart.
Price: ₩800–₩1,500 per pack. Family packs (5 pcs) around ₩4,000.
Why buy: Cute and functional. Perfect for journaling, planning, or gifting.
Where to buy: Artbox, Daiso, Kyobo Bookstore, or Dongdaemun stationery market.
Price: ₩500–₩5,000 depending on item and design.
Why buy: Tasty, healthy, and easy to carry. Koreans eat it daily with rice or as a snack.
Where to buy: Supermarkets, Lotte Mart, and airport duty-free shops.
Price: ₩3,000–₩10,000 per pack depending on size and quality.
Why buy: Fun, cheap, and practical. Designs range from traditional patterns to K-pop stars.
Where to buy: Street markets like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and subway station shops.
Price: ₩1,000–₩3,000 per pair.
Why buy: These essential Korean condiments add a rich, spicy flavor to any dish. Ssamjang is used for grilled meats, while gochujang is a key ingredient in bibimbap, tteokbokki, and more.
Where to buy: E-Mart, Lotte Mart, Homeplus, or convenience stores like CU and GS25.
Price: ₩2,500–₩6,000 depending on size and packaging (pouch, tub, or tube).
Why buy: Herbal patches for muscle pain relief. A popular item among older locals—and savvy tourists.
Where to buy: Local pharmacies (약국) or traditional markets.
Price: ₩3,000–₩7,000 per pack.
Why buy: Korean tea sets are beautiful and compact. Pair them with green tea, citron tea, or barley tea for a thoughtful gift.
Where to buy: Insadong (Seoul), traditional markets, or specialty tea shops.
Price: ₩15,000–₩50,000 depending on craftsmanship.
📌 Final Thoughts
Korea is full of practical and affordable items you’ll actually use—even after you return home. Whether it’s skincare, food, or cultural keepsakes, these ten products are proven local favorites. Happy shopping—and don’t forget to leave some space in your suitcase!
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