A Foreigner’s Guide to Shopping at Olive Young

If this is your first visit, these categories are a good place to start:

• Skincare: cleansers, toners, serums, lotions, and creams
• Sun care: sunscreen, sun sticks, and sun cushions
• Makeup: cushions, lip products, and eye makeup
• Hair and body care: shampoo, treatments, body wash, and hand cream
• Beauty tools: puffs, brushes, and nail tools
• Health products: vitamins and dietary supplements

Popular or discounted products are often marked near the entrance or on special displays. Stock and promotions can vary by store and date, so check availability in advance if you are looking for a specific item.

If Korean product names are unfamiliar, check the following information on the package:

• Product type and intended use
• Directions and recommended frequency
• Key ingredients and possible allergens
• Size and expiration date
• Shade number or skin-tone information
• Whether the package is sealed

If a tester is available, apply only a small amount to the back of your hand. Check the ingredients and warnings before applying anything to your face. If you are sensitive to fragrance or a particular ingredient, ask a staff member to help you read the ingredient list.

Terms such as “brightening,” “wrinkle care,” and “UV protection” describe the product’s labeled function or claim. They do not guarantee the same result for everyone, so choose according to your skin condition and purpose.

Before checkout, ask the staff:

• Whether foreign cards are accepted
• Whether the store offers a tax refund
• Whether the refund is immediate or requires a separate process
• Whether you need your physical passport
• What the exchange and refund conditions are

A tax refund for international visitors is not automatically available at every store or for every product. Participating stores, purchase conditions, visitor eligibility, and refund methods depend on current rules and the store’s system. The Korea Tourism Organization explains that an immediate refund can remove the need to visit a separate refund counter at an airport or port, but you should confirm availability at the store before paying.

If you plan to claim a tax refund, keep your physical passport and receipt available. A refund may not be possible if some items are not eligible or if the store’s procedure is not followed.

If you buy several liquid or gel products, check your airline’s baggage rules. Whether an item can be carried into the cabin depends on the product, container size, and airline policy.

If you will not use a product immediately, keep it sealed and save the receipt. Exchange and refund policies can vary by product and store, so ask before completing your purchase.

1. 1

   Choose the category you need.

2. 2

   Check testers and ingredients.

3. 3

   Confirm the size, shade, and expiration date.

4. 4

   Ask about payment and tax refunds before checkout.

5. 5

   Prepare your passport and keep the receipt.

6. 6

   Pack your purchases safely for travel.