Shopping in Korea is exciting—from the neon buzz of Myeongdong to the hidden gems of traditional markets! Whether you're hunting for K-beauty, fashion, electronics, or cute souvenirs, knowing a few Korean shopping phrases will help you get the best deals and avoid confusion. 👜
Even if you shop in touristy areas where some English is spoken, simple Korean expressions like “얼마예요?” (How much is it?) or “카드 돼요?” (Can I use a card?) can go a long way. Sellers appreciate the effort—and sometimes give discounts just because you tried! 😉
🧾 Why Learn Korean for Shopping?
Whether you're browsing department stores in Gangnam, street stalls in Dongdaemun, or vintage shops in Hongdae, shopping in Korea is fun, vibrant, and full of variety! But language can be a barrier if you're not prepared. 🧺
Most shopkeepers are friendly and helpful, but many don’t speak fluent English—especially in smaller or local stores. That’s where learning a few essential Korean shopping phrases becomes super helpful. 🗣️
Even just being able to say “얼마예요?” (How much is it?) or “이거 있어요?” (Do you have this?) can instantly open up the conversation. It also shows locals that you're respectful and making an effort, which usually leads to better service or even discounts. 💸
Plus, understanding common words on price tags, discount signs, and receipts will help you shop smarter and avoid any awkward miscommunications at the register.
🛒 Why Korean Phrases Matter While Shopping
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Better Communication | Easier to ask questions or get product info |
| Cultural Respect | Locals appreciate the effort to speak Korean |
| Better Deals | You might get discounts or freebies |
Now that you know why it’s important, let’s look at the must-know shopping expressions you’ll use most often. 🛍️
🗣️ Must-Know Shopping Phrases
You don’t need to be fluent to shop in Korea—you just need a few power phrases! These simple sentences will help you ask questions, understand replies, and even negotiate prices. 🧾
1. 이거 얼마예요? (igeo eolmayeyo?)
“How much is this?” — The most useful phrase in Korean shopping, hands down!
2. 이거 있어요? (igeo isseoyo?)
“Do you have this?” — Point at a photo or item and ask. Useful for sizes, styles, colors.
3. 좀 더 큰 거 있어요? (jom deo keun geo isseoyo?)
“Do you have something bigger?” — Or swap “큰” (big) for “작은” (small) to ask for a smaller item.
🧾 Top Shopping Phrases
| English | Korean | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| How much is it? | 이거 얼마예요? | Asking price |
| Do you have this? | 이거 있어요? | Checking availability |
| Do you have it in a larger size? | 좀 더 큰 거 있어요? | Asking about size |
You can also practice saying: “그냥 보고 있어요” (geunyang bogo isseoyo) — “I’m just looking.” It’s perfect for politely declining help when you want to browse freely. 🧍♂️
📏 Asking About Sizes and Colors
Korean sizing can be different from what you’re used to, especially in clothing and shoes. Many shops use small (S), medium (M), and large (L) labels, but they often run smaller than in Western countries. 🧥👟
When you're unsure, it’s totally okay to ask the shop assistant. Say “큰 사이즈 있어요?” (keun saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have a bigger size?” or “작은 거 있어요?” (jageun geo isseoyo?) for “Do you have a smaller one?”
To ask about colors, use the word 색 (saek). For example: “다른 색 있어요?” means “Do you have another color?” You can even point and say a color name like “검정색” (black), “하얀색” (white), “빨간색” (red). 🎨
Trying things on? Say “입어봐도 돼요?” (ibeobwado dwaeyo?) — “Can I try it on?” Most shops with fitting rooms are happy to let you try clothes first.
🎽 Size & Color Shopping Phrases
| English | Korean | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have a larger size? | 큰 사이즈 있어요? | When shopping for clothing |
| Can I try this on? | 입어봐도 돼요? | Before using the fitting room |
| Do you have another color? | 다른 색 있어요? | Checking color options |
If you're between sizes, try asking for measurements: “사이즈 몇이에요?” (What size is this?). That helps avoid returns later. 📏
💰 Talking About Prices and Discounts
Let’s talk money! Korea has fixed prices in most department stores and chains, but at local markets or street vendors, bargaining is still a thing. And yes—you can ask for discounts politely. 😎
Start by asking “얼마예요?” (eolmayeyo?) — “How much is it?” You’ll hear prices in Korean won, so it’s good to be familiar with big numbers like 천 (1,000), 만 (10,000), or 십만 (100,000).
To ask for a lower price, say: “좀 깎아 주세요” (jom kkakka juseyo) — “Can you give me a discount?” Use this with a smile in street markets and sometimes they’ll say yes!
You can also ask if something is on sale: “세일이에요?” (se-il-i-eyo?) — “Is this on sale?” Look out for sale signs: 할인 (harin = discount) and 1+1 (buy one get one). 🛒
💸 Price & Bargain Phrases
| English | Korean | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Can I get a discount? | 좀 깎아 주세요 | Useful in open markets |
| Is it on sale? | 세일이에요? | Checking for discounts |
| How much is this? | 이거 얼마예요? | Asking price |
Most vendors will appreciate your friendly tone and effort to speak Korean—don’t be afraid to try bargaining a little! 💬
💳 Paying and Receipts
You’ve made your pick and you’re ready to pay. Great! But how do you ask if you can use a card, or get a receipt in Korean? Let’s cover those final steps in your shopping adventure. 💳
Most stores in Korea accept cards (even international ones), but it’s still polite to ask: “카드 돼요?” (kadeu dwaeyo?) — “Can I use a card?”
If you’re paying in cash, no problem. Just hand it over at the register. To ask for a receipt, say: “영수증 주세요” (yeongsujeung juseyo) — “Please give me a receipt.”
Some stores will also ask you: “현금이세요, 카드이세요?” — “Cash or card?” You can reply “현금이요” (cash) or “카드이요” (card).
💵 Payment & Receipt Phrases
| English | Korean | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Can I use a card? | 카드 돼요? | Before paying |
| Receipt, please | 영수증 주세요 | After purchase |
| Cash, please | 현금이요 | When asked payment type |
Korea also has tax-free shopping for tourists! If your purchase is over 30,000 KRW in a tax-free store, ask: “택스 리펀드 되나요?” (Does this qualify for tax refund?) 🧾
🔁 Asking About Returns or Exchanges
Made a mistake or changed your mind? In Korea, return and exchange policies vary widely depending on the store. Some allow it within a few days, others don’t accept returns at all. 🔄
To ask about returning something, say: “환불 돼요?” (hwanbul dwaeyo?) — “Can I get a refund?”
For exchanges, use: “교환 돼요?” (gyohwan dwaeyo?) — “Can I exchange this?”
If you’re unsure of their policy, ask before you buy: “교환이나 환불 가능해요?” — “Are returns or exchanges possible?”
Keep your receipt just in case! Some shops require the original packaging and receipt within 7 days for any return. 🧾📦
📦 Return & Exchange Phrases
| English | Korean | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Can I return this? | 환불 돼요? | After purchase |
| Can I exchange this? | 교환 돼요? | After purchase |
| Do you allow returns or exchanges? | 교환이나 환불 가능해요? | Before purchasing |
Not every store allows it, so it’s always a good idea to ask in advance. Most brand-name shops and department stores will have clear policies. 🧑⚖️
❓ FAQ
Q1. Can I bargain in Korean stores?
A1. Yes, in markets or small shops—but not in department stores or big chains.
Q2. Do Korean stores accept foreign cards?
A2. Most do, especially Visa and Mastercard. But always ask first: “카드 돼요?”
Q3. What if I don’t speak any Korean?
A3. Use basic phrases, point, or use a translation app. Staff are usually patient!
Q4. Is tipping expected?
A4. No—tipping is not part of Korean culture. Prices include service.
Q5. Can I get a tax refund as a tourist?
A5. Yes—if you spend over ₩30,000 at a tax-free store, ask for a tax refund form.
Q6. What should I do if I get overcharged?
A6. Politely show your receipt and ask questions. Most mistakes are honest.
Q7. Are returns possible on sale items?
A7. Usually no, but it depends on the store. Always check first.
Q8. What if I break something in a shop?
A8. Apologize right away: “죄송합니다” (I'm sorry). Most stores are understanding.
⚠️ This article is for educational purposes only. Store policies and practices can vary by region and business type. Always check with staff or signage for exact rules.
