A Shopping Guide to Myeongdong

Myeongdong is one of Seoul's busiest shopping streets. Cosmetics shops, fashion stores, department stores, and street food all sit within a few blocks of each other.

What to shop for

Cosmetics — a dense cluster of standalone shops makes it easy to compare and buy.
Fashion and accessories — mid-range stores sit alongside department stores.
Street food — stalls fill the streets from evening on.

Tax refunds

Eligible short-term foreign visitors may claim a refund for purchases of KRW 15,000 or more per transaction at participating tax-refund stores. Goods must be taken out of Korea, and limits and procedures differ for immediate, downtown, and airport refunds. Carry your passport and check the store sign and refund documents.

Good to know

Weekends and evenings get very crowded. Staff at cosmetics shops can be pushy about pulling you in — feel free to just keep walking if you're not interested.

Card payment is widely accepted, though cash is easier at street stalls. Myeongdong Station on Line 4 is right nearby.