How to Shop Like a Local in Seoul
The lights of Seoul (Photo: Alex Barlow/Moment/Getty Images)
In Seoul, South Korea, the order of the day is strolling and window shopping, with several bags and a girlfriend in tow. Tourists from other parts of Asia come here just to buy stuff, as there are a lot of high-quality, low-priced options you won’t find anywhere else (especially at the plethora of no-name spots). Here are a few ways to tackle your shopping itinerary. And keep in mind: to avoid the traffic, use the subway, an easy way to navigate this sprawling metropolis.
The Department Store
Hyundai department store (Photo: Hiseoulyh)
If you want to get “Gangnam-style” glam, head to the Hyundai department store in Apgujeong near Rodeo Drive (by the way, if you’re looking for plastic surgery options, this neighborhood is also the place to get under the knife). This is where affluent shoppers pick up the best bedspreads, parasols, and stylish shoes. Use a credit card for kickbacks and get stuff delivered to you back home.
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The Neighborhood
Myeongdong (Photo: angels./Flickr)
From scarves and hats from a cart, centrally based Myeong-dong has something for everyone, especially skincare items. Koreans are famous for their flawless complexions. Step into the Face Shop and stock up on brightening masks or grab BB and snail creams from Missha. Boutiques with one-of-a-kind finds line the streets. But if you’re not a size small, you’re better off checking out the American brand stores. Foreigners, bring your passport — it doesn’t hurt to ask if there’s a discount. Spend the savings at an outdoor stand on fish cakes and stuffed munchies.
A street food stand (Photo: Rose Ferrer/Flickr)
The Market
Donddaemun Market (Photo: Sei Man Choi/Moment Editorial/Getty Images)
Dongdaemun is market central: be prepared to get inundated with sparkly accessories and lots of trinkets. The open-air space has been in business for more than a century. You’ll find items marked at wholesale prices — but you should still feel free to bargain. There are fashion shows and plenty of knock-offs in this celebrity-obsessed culture and if you’re more of a night owl shopaholic, the best time to go is at night.
Related: How to Shop in South Korea, Gangnam Style and Beyond
The Mall
Megabox Cinema in COEX Shopping Center (Photo: Morning Calm Weekly Newspaper Installation Management Command/Flickr)
COEX serves as Asia’s largest underground shopping center, located below the Korea World Trade Center. Some stores are undergoing renovations for a grand opening scheduled to happen in December 2014. In the meantime, the teenage crowd spends their money and time at the aquarium, arcade, and movie theater. Check out the sportswear brands including Abercrombie & Fitch-like WHO.A.U or J. Crew-ish Beanpole. Bookworms can head to the expansive Bandi & Luni’s, which sells English and Korean texts. Get all your stationery supplies at Morning Glory.
Related: Daily Servings of Amazing Local Food on Seoul Eats
Morning Glory products (Photo: Republic of Korea/Flickr)
The Old-School Spot
Insa-dong traditional Korean brushes (Photo: Ingmar Zahorsky/Flickr)
You could feel like a foreigner at the McDonald’s in Itaewon (guilty) OR head to Insadong to value Korean history and the country’s crafts. I got a violin and many rice cakes here, but you can also pick out a traditional dress or pottery. An artsy crowd flocks here for the many galleries. Side note: Nosh on North Korean style dumplings or slurp noodles at Sadong Myeonok.
Traditional Korean Noodles at Sadong Myeonok (Photo: lazy fri3th/Flickr)
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