The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Korean Cosmetics: Where to Get the Best Deals
If you're planning a trip to Korea and wondering where to stock up on skincare and makeup, look no further than Olive Young. As the country's largest health and beauty drugstore chain, it is hands-down the best place to find authentic products at unbeatable prices.
Why Choose Olive Young?
With locations on nearly every corner, Olive Young is incredibly convenient. They feature transparent, listed pricing and host frequent promotions, including "Buy 1 Get 1 Free" deals and seasonal sales ranging from 30% to 50% off. For the best selection, I highly recommend visiting these two flagship stores:
- Olive Young Gangnam: The largest branch with the most comprehensive inventory.
- Olive Young Hongdae: Perfectly situated near the vibrant shopping and entertainment district.
These stores accept international credit cards. Using a card with low or no foreign transaction fees makes bulk shopping worry-free.
Must-Buy Skincare Essentials
Prices at Olive Young are typically 30–50% cheaper than importing them abroad. Here are my go-to items:
- Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder: A staple for oil control (approx. 8,000 KRW).
- COSRX Snail Mucin Essence: Excellent for evening out skin tone (approx. 18,000 KRW).
- Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: A viral favorite that sells out fast—grab it early!
- Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Cream: Great for soothing and repairing the skin (approx. 35,000 KRW).
A Note on Myeong-dong
While Myeong-dong is a must-visit destination, I suggest skipping it for beauty shopping. Prices are often higher than at Olive Young, and the high-pressure sales tactics from staff can be overwhelming. Instead, save Myeong-dong for street food snacks and photo ops. If you are planning a trip this summer, make sure to build your shopping list early—Olive Young typically runs major seasonal sales throughout June and July!
