How to Get a Tax Refund in Korea as a Tourist | Complete Guide

 

How to Get a Tax Refund in Korea as a Tourist (2026 Guide)

Did you know that foreign tourists can receive a refund of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on eligible purchases made in South Korea?

If you're visiting Korea for sightseeing, shopping, K-pop concerts, or a BTS event, you may be able to save money by claiming a tax refund before leaving the country.

This guide explains who qualifies, where to shop, how much you can get back, and how to claim your Korean tax refund.

What Is a Tax Refund in Korea?

South Korea allows eligible foreign visitors to receive a refund on VAT paid for certain purchases made during their trip.

Many major retailers participate in the Tax Free Shopping program, including:

• Olive Young
• Daiso Korea
• Lotte Department Store
• Shinsegae Department Store
• Hyundai Department Store
• Duty Free Shops
• Beauty Stores
• Fashion Stores

Who Can Get a Tax Refund?

You may qualify if:

• You are a foreign visitor.
• You stay in Korea for less than the qualifying period under current regulations.
• You take the purchased items out of Korea.
• You meet the minimum purchase requirement.

Eligibility rules may change, so check the latest information when shopping.

How Much Tax Refund Can You Receive?

The refund amount depends on:

• Purchase price
• Product category
• Participating tax refund company

In many cases, shoppers receive a portion of the VAT paid on eligible purchases.

Look for the "Tax Free" Sign

When shopping, look for signs such as:

• Tax Free
• Tax Refund
• Global Blue
• Global Tax Free (GTF)
• Cube Refund
• Easy Tax Refund

These signs indicate that the store participates in the tourist tax refund program.

Option 1: Immediate Tax Refund at the Store

Many stores now offer an instant tax refund service.

This means:

1. Show your passport.
2. Complete your purchase.
3. The VAT amount is deducted immediately.

No additional airport refund process may be required for qualifying purchases.

Option 2: Refund at the Airport

If an immediate refund is not available, you may need to claim your refund before departure.

Step 1

Keep your receipts and tax refund documents.

Step 2

Arrive at the airport early.

Step 3

Use the tax refund kiosk or visit the refund counter.

Step 4

Scan your passport and documents.

Step 5

Receive your refund according to the provider's process.

Tax Refund at Gimhae International Airport (Busan)

Travelers departing from Busan can process tax refunds at Gimhae International Airport.

Facilities may include:

• Tax refund kiosks
• Refund service counters
• Customs verification points

Arriving at least 2–3 hours before departure is recommended during busy travel periods.

Tax Refund at Incheon International Airport

Incheon Airport provides multiple tax refund services throughout both terminals.

Many travelers departing Korea complete their tax refund process here.

Popular Tourist Purchases Eligible for Tax Refund

• Korean skincare products
• Cosmetics
• Olive Young products
• Fashion items
• Sneakers
• K-pop merchandise
• Department store purchases
• Health and beauty products

Can You Get a Tax Refund at Olive Young?

Yes.

Many Olive Young locations participate in the tax refund program.

Simply ask staff:

"Tax Free Available?"

Bring your passport when shopping.

Can You Get a Tax Refund at Daiso Korea?

Some larger Daiso locations may participate in tax refund programs.

Always check the store's tax-free eligibility before purchasing.

Important Tax Refund Tips

• Carry your passport while shopping.
• Keep all receipts.
• Check whether the store offers immediate refunds.
• Allow extra time at the airport.
• Do not use purchased goods excessively before departure if customs inspection may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreign tourists receive VAT refunds in Korea?

Yes. Eligible visitors can receive VAT refunds on qualifying purchases.

Do I need my passport?

Yes. Most tax-free purchases require passport verification.

Can I get a refund at Olive Young?

Many Olive Young stores offer tax-free shopping services.

Where can I claim my refund in Busan?

Many refunds can be processed at Gimhae International Airport before departure.

Final Thoughts

Tax-free shopping is one of the easiest ways for tourists to save money while traveling in South Korea. Whether you're buying skincare products, K-beauty items, fashion goods, or K-pop merchandise, checking for tax refund eligibility can help reduce your overall travel expenses.

Before leaving Korea, make sure to keep your receipts, bring your passport, and complete the refund process at the airport if necessary.