If you shop in Korea as a foreign visitor, you can get part of the 10% VAT back. At many stores you don't even have to wait for the airport: the shop takes the tax off at the counter when you show your passport. Here's how it works and what limits apply.
Who can get a tax refund
- Foreign visitors staying in Korea for less than 6 months
- Overseas Koreans who have lived abroad for 2+ years and are staying less than 3 months
You need your physical passport at the time of purchase. A photo of it is usually not accepted.
Two ways to get your refund
1. Instant refund at the store
Look for "Tax Free" or "Tax Refund" signs. Many cosmetics stores, department stores and big-brand shops in Myeongdong, Hongdae and Seongsu do this.
- Show your passport at the counter.
- The tax is taken off right away. You pay the lower price.
- Limit: up to 1,000,000 won per purchase and up to 5,000,000 won in total during your trip.
These limits were doubled from 500,000 and 2,500,000 won starting January 1, 2024, according to Korea's finance ministry.
2. Refund at the airport
If a store doesn't do instant refunds, or you go over the limits, the store gives you a tax refund receipt. Claim it at the airport:
- Go to the tax refund kiosk before check-in.
- Scan your passport and receipts.
- If customs needs to see the goods, show them before you check your bag.
- Collect cash or a card refund after passing security, or follow the kiosk's instructions.
Allow extra time at the airport. Lines at refund kiosks can be long in busy seasons.
Minimum spend
Most tax-free stores need about 15,000 won or more on one receipt. Some smaller shops set their own higher minimum, often 30,000 won. If you're close, it's worth buying together in one transaction rather than two.
How much do you actually get back?
Not the full 10%. After the refund operator's fee, visitors usually get back somewhere around 5 to 8% depending on the amount. Larger receipts tend to get a slightly better rate.
Tips
- Keep the goods unused and in their packaging until you leave. Customs can check.
- Carry your passport on shopping days.
- Keep every receipt together, especially if you'll claim at the airport.
- Ask "Tax free?" before paying. Staff in tourist areas are used to the question.
FAQ
Can I get a refund on food and restaurant bills?
No. Tax refunds apply to goods you take out of the country, not to meals or services.
What if I'm leaving from a port or a regional airport?
Major international airports and ports have refund counters, but services vary. Check with your store or the refund operator shown on your receipt.
Final word
For most visitors, the easiest path is the instant refund at the counter: bring your passport, shop at stores with a Tax Free sign, and stay within 1,000,000 won per purchase. Anything else, claim at the airport before you check in.