Korea Shopping Guide

Tax Refund Guide

Foreign visitors can receive a refund of certain taxes paid when purchasing goods in Korea. Tax refunds help visitors save money while shopping in Korea.

Tax Refund Guide infographic
01 — Overview

Quick Summary

Tax refund regulations may change over time.

Key takeaways

  • How To Identify Tax Refund Stores — Look for signs such as: TAX FREE · TAX REFUND · Global Blue · Global Tax Free
  • How Tax Refund Works — Shop at a participating store.
  • Airport Tax Refund — Check refund documents
  • Refund Methods — Credit Card
  • How Much Can You Save? — The refund amount depends on: Purchase Amount · Product Category · Current Regulations
02 — Full Guide

The Complete Guide

What Is Tax Refund?

Foreign visitors can receive a refund of certain taxes paid when purchasing goods in Korea.

Tax refunds help visitors save money while shopping in Korea.

Tax refund regulations may change over time.

  • Who Can Get A Tax Refund?: Eligible Visitors · Foreign Tourists · Short-Term Visitors · Overseas Koreans (in some cases)
  • Requirements: Passport
  • Eligible Store: Minimum Purchase Amount

How To Identify Tax Refund Stores

  • Look for signs such as: TAX FREE · TAX REFUND · Global Blue · Global Tax Free
  • Common Places Offering Tax Refunds: Myeongdong
  • Department Stores: Duty Free Stores

How Tax Refund Works

Shop at a participating store.

Show your passport.

Receive a tax refund receipt.

Keep the receipt.

Receive the refund.

Airport Tax Refund

Many visitors complete the refund process before departure.

Arrive at the airport early if you plan to process a tax refund.

  • Typical Process: Check refund documents
  • Visit refund counter: Complete verification
  • Receive refund: Major Airports
  • Incheon International Airport: Gimhae International Airport
  • Jeju International Airport: Important

Refund Methods

The available refund method may vary depending on the refund provider.

  • Cash: Credit Card

Useful Tax Refund Resources

  • Global Tax Free: Website · https://www.global-taxfree.com
  • Global Blue: Website · https://www.globalblue.com
  • Easy Tax Refund: Website · https://www.easytaxrefund.co.kr

How Much Can You Save?

Generally, larger purchases result in larger refunds.

  • The refund amount depends on: Purchase Amount · Product Category · Current Regulations

Major Department Stores

  • Common Foreigner Mistakes
  • Forgetting passport
  • Throwing away receipts
  • Shopping at non-participating stores
  • Waiting until the last minute
  • Not checking refund requirements
  • Leaving refund receipts in checked luggage
Pro Tips

Pro Tips

  • Always carry your passport when shopping.
  • Keep all receipts until departure.
  • Ask staff if tax refund is available.
  • Complete refund procedures early at the airport.
  • Large purchases offer greater savings.
Ask AI

Ask AI About This Topic

AI Assistant

Have a question about Tax Refund Guide?

Get instant, locally-checked answers from the ASK KOREA AI. Ask anything from specific edge cases to itinerary decisions.

Ask this question
Suggested prompt

"Tell me more about tax refund guide in Korea and how to make the most of it as a visitor."

ASK KOREA Transit