If you've ever stepped into a Korean grocery store or convenience store like GS25, CU, or E-Mart, you know how overwhelming it can be—especially when you don’t speak the language. Shelves are packed with unfamiliar items, and the cashier speaks faster than your textbook ever prepared you for.
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🛒 Navigating Korean Grocery Stores
Shopping in a Korean grocery store can feel like stepping into a new cultural world. From unique product arrangements to unfamiliar vocabulary, it may feel overwhelming at first. But once you understand the layout and learn key phrases, the experience becomes enjoyable and empowering.
Most large Korean supermarkets—like E-Mart, Lotte Mart, or Homeplus—organize their aisles by category, but the signs are written in Korean. For example, the dairy section will say “유제품” (yujepum), and frozen foods are labeled “냉동식품” (naengdong sikpum). These terms are useful to recognize even if you're not fluent.
The produce section is often located near the entrance. If you're looking for vegetables, search for the sign that says “채소” (chaeso). Fruits are labeled “과일” (gwail), and meats are under “정육” (jeongyuk). These words aren’t usually taught early in textbooks, so learning them gives you an edge.
Korean grocery stores often feature promotional zones with discounted or bulk items. You may hear employees announce deals using phrases like “지금 세일 중입니다!” (jigeum seil jungimnida!) — “We’re having a sale right now!” or “1+1 행사예요” (il peulleos il haengsa-yeyo) — “Buy one, get one free.”
If you can’t find what you need, you can ask a staff member: “~ 어디에 있어요?” (~ eodie isseoyo?) which means “Where is ~?” For example, “두유 어디에 있어요?” (duyu eodie isseoyo?) — “Where is soy milk?” It's a flexible pattern you can reuse for many products.
To ask if a product is available, say “~ 있어요?” (~ isseoyo?). Example: “현미 있어요?” (hyeonmi isseoyo?) — “Do you have brown rice?” It’s polite, concise, and commonly used in-store.
Supermarkets in Korea can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you bump into someone or need to pass, use “죄송합니다” (joesonghamnida) — “Excuse me.” It shows politeness and helps maintain a friendly shopping atmosphere.
You’ll also find self-checkout stations in bigger stores. If you’re unsure how to use them, ask a worker: “셀프 계산 어떻게 해요?” (selpeu gyesan eotteoke haeyo?) — “How do I use the self-checkout?” Most staff are happy to assist.
While shopping, you might need a basket or cart. Ask “장바구니 어디 있어요?” (jangbaguni eodi isseoyo?) — “Where is the shopping basket?” If you need a cart, say “카트 있어요?” (kateu isseoyo?).
After you finish shopping, you’ll go to the checkout counter. It’s common for cashiers to ask: “포인트 적립하세요?” (pointeu jeongnip haseyo?) — “Would you like to collect points?” You can say “아니요” (aniyo) if not, or hand them your store membership app.
In smaller neighborhood markets, like “mart” stores or traditional 시장 (sijang), communication is more direct. But even there, using basic polite Korean leaves a great impression and helps you connect with locals.
Knowing even a few key words gives you more independence, comfort, and confidence in everyday life. Grocery stores aren’t just for shopping—they're also real-life classrooms where you can learn naturally.
💡 Try this: On your next visit, pick one category—like dairy or snacks—and learn how to say three related items. Practice by asking where they are, or saying the item name aloud as you pick it up.
🗂️ Grocery Store Vocabulary Quick Guide
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 유제품 | yujepum | Dairy products |
| 과일 | gwail | Fruits |
| 채소 | chaeso | Vegetables |
| 정육 | jeongyuk | Meat section |
| 냉동식품 | naengdong sikpum | Frozen food |
Every shopping trip is an opportunity to reinforce real Korean skills. When you start noticing and saying these words out loud, they stick—and soon enough, grocery shopping becomes a language lesson of its own.
🧾 Asking for Products & Brands
Finding a specific product or brand in a Korean store can feel tricky, especially if you're not sure how to pronounce the name or category. But don’t worry — Korean store staff are used to these kinds of questions, and with a few useful phrases, you’ll be able to find what you need smoothly.
When looking for a particular item, start with “~ 있어요?” (~ isseoyo?) — “Do you have ~?” For example, “코카콜라 있어요?” (kokakolla isseoyo?) — “Do you have Coca-Cola?” This simple question works for both local and global brands.
Want a different flavor or size? Try saying “다른 맛 있어요?” (dareun mat isseoyo?) — “Do you have another flavor?” or “큰 사이즈 있어요?” (keun saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have a bigger size?” These modifiers help you get exactly what you want.
Brand-specific items are very common in Korea. If you're looking for a Korean brand like Binggrae or Orion, simply pronounce it as is and add the object. Example: “빙그레 바나나우유 있어요?” (binggeure banana uyu isseoyo?) — “Do you have Binggrae Banana Milk?”
Many stores sell product lines by color, not name. Instead of asking for a “mild” or “spicy” ramen, say: “빨간색 라면 있어요?” (ppalgan saek ramyeon isseoyo?) — “Do you have the red ramen?” Colors often identify product types here.
You can also specify package size or count. Use: “소포장 있어요?” (sopojang isseoyo?) — “Do you have small packages?” or “10개짜리 있어요?” (yeolgae jjari isseoyo?) — “Do you have a 10-pack?” Helpful in bulk stores like Costco Korea.
If something is out of stock, the staff might say “지금 없어요” (jigeum eopseoyo) — “We don’t have it right now.” You can then ask: “언제 들어와요?” (eonje deureowayo?) — “When will it be restocked?” They might tell you a day or time.
At convenience stores like CU or 7-Eleven, many items are behind the counter (like cigarettes or high-priced snacks). You can point and say “저거 주세요” (jeogeu juseyo) — “That one, please.” Combine it with the product name for clarity.
Keep in mind that pronunciation matters, especially for English words adapted into Korean. For example, Red Bull becomes “레드불” (redeubul) and Doritos becomes “도리토스” (doritoseu). Practicing these will make your requests smoother.
Being specific shows you're learning Korean with intention, and most clerks appreciate your effort—even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect. Don’t be shy about repeating or pointing if needed.
Let’s look at some common brand-related phrases and their meanings so you can apply them during your next visit to the store.
🛍️ Brand & Product Request Phrases
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 코카콜라 있어요? | kokakolla isseoyo? | Do you have Coca-Cola? |
| 다른 맛 있어요? | dareun mat isseoyo? | Do you have another flavor? |
| 레드불 있어요? | redeubul isseoyo? | Do you have Red Bull? |
| 10개짜리 있어요? | yeolgae jjari isseoyo? | Do you have a 10-pack? |
| 언제 들어와요? | eonje deureowayo? | When will it be restocked? |
Knowing how to ask clearly for what you want saves time and builds confidence. Use these phrases, and you’ll be navigating Korean stores like a pro in no time!
🥤 Convenience Store Survival Phrases
Convenience stores in Korea—like GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, and Emart24—are open 24/7 and are everywhere. They’re not just places to grab snacks or drinks. You can pay bills, get a quick meal, heat up food, buy toiletries, or even send a package. That’s why knowing how to speak in this setting is a big win.
When you walk into a store, you’ll often hear “어서 오세요!” (eoseo oseyo!) — “Welcome!” It’s polite to respond with a small nod or a smile. Most clerks won’t start a conversation unless you approach them first.
Let’s say you’re hungry. You grab a triangle kimbap and cup noodles. You go to the counter and ask: “이거 전자레인지 사용해도 돼요?” (igeo jeonjaraeinji sayonghaedo dwaeyo?) — “Can I use the microwave?” Every convenience store has one, and most are free to use.
If you don’t know how long to heat something, ask: “몇 분 돌려요?” (myeot bun dollyeoyo?) — “How many minutes should I heat this?” The staff may point to a sign or show you directly.
Want to use chopsticks or a spoon? Ask: “젓가락 있어요?” (jeotgarak isseoyo?) — “Do you have chopsticks?” or “숟가락 주세요” (sutgarak juseyo) — “Please give me a spoon.” These are usually behind the counter or near the microwave station.
If something doesn’t scan or has no price tag, ask: “이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo?) — “How much is this?” It’s a classic phrase, but extremely useful, especially when shopping in a rush.
Many foreigners struggle when they’re asked unexpected questions at checkout. A common one is “봉투 필요하세요?” (bongtu piryohaseyo?) — “Do you need a bag?” Plastic bags are often not free, so it’s okay to say “네, 주세요” (ne, juseyo) or “아니요” (aniyo).
Sometimes the cashier may ask “포인트 있으세요?” (pointeu isseuseyo?) — “Do you have membership points?” Unless you have the app, just smile and say “없어요” (eopseoyo) — “I don’t have it.”
Late at night, many customers buy alcohol. Korean law requires age verification. You might hear: “신분증 보여주세요” (sinbunjeung boyeojuseyo) — “Please show me your ID.” If you’re obviously older, they may skip it—but it's good to know the phrase.
Convenience store phrases are among the most practical Korean you’ll ever use, especially for self-learners or travelers staying in Korea for even a few days. These are quick, useful, and context-rich.
Let’s take a look at a phrase table that includes everyday survival expressions inside convenience stores. Use them, say them aloud, and they’ll become second nature.
🏪 Must-Know Convenience Store Phrases
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 전자레인지 사용해도 돼요? | jeonjaraeinji sayonghaedo dwaeyo? | Can I use the microwave? |
| 봉투 필요하세요? | bongtu piryohaseyo? | Do you need a bag? |
| 이거 얼마예요? | igeo eolmayeyo? | How much is this? |
| 젓가락 있어요? | jeotgarak isseoyo? | Do you have chopsticks? |
| 신분증 보여주세요 | sinbunjeung boyeojuseyo | Please show me your ID |
Mastering these phrases helps you survive and thrive in one of the most used spaces in Korean daily life. You’ll feel more at home with every visit!
💳 Payment, Points, and Promotions
In Korea, paying for your groceries or convenience store items may feel familiar, but several small cultural and language differences can catch you off guard. From how you hand over your card to how promotions are communicated, it's a great opportunity to learn practical Korean expressions.
When you reach the counter, the cashier will often ask: “결제 도와드릴게요” (gyeoljae dowadeurilgeyo) — “I’ll help you with the payment.” At this point, you can choose between card and cash. Just say “카드요” (kadeu-yo) — “Card” or “현금이요” (hyeongeum-i-yo) — “Cash.”
If you're using a credit or debit card, tap-and-go systems are common. You might hear: “여기에 대주세요” (yeogie dae-juseyo) — “Please tap it here.” The machine usually displays a card symbol or says IC or NFC.
Some stores may ask: “할부로 하시겠어요?” (halburo hasigesseoyo?) — “Would you like to pay in installments?” Unless you’re buying electronics or expensive items, just say “일시불로 해주세요” (ilsibullo haejuseyo) — “One-time payment, please.”
After the transaction, it’s common for the staff to ask: “영수증 드릴까요?” (yeongsujeung deurilkkayo?) — “Would you like a receipt?” You can answer “네, 주세요” (ne, juseyo) — “Yes, please” or “괜찮아요” (gwaenchana-yo) — “It’s okay.”
One unique aspect of shopping in Korea is the use of point systems. Many stores are affiliated with apps like L.Point, CJ ONE, or membership barcodes. You’ll often hear: “포인트 있으세요?” (pointeu isseuseyo?) — “Do you have membership points?”
If you want to earn or use your points, open your app and scan the barcode. You can say: “포인트 적립할게요” (pointeu jeongnip halgeyo) — “I’ll collect points.” Or “포인트 사용할게요” (pointeu sayong halgeyo) — “I’d like to use my points.”
Korean stores love promotions. You’ll see signs like “1+1” (il plus il) — buy one, get one free or “2+1” (i plus il) — buy two, get one. You can ask: “이거 행사 중이에요?” (igeo haengsa jung-ieyo?) — “Is this on promotion?”
Sometimes, the promotion isn’t obvious. Don’t hesitate to ask: “이거 1+1 맞아요?” (igeo il peulleos il majayo?) — “Is this really buy one, get one?” This is especially helpful with beverages or snacks that look similar.
These brief interactions are more than just shopping — they’re chances to practice real Korean in a fast, public setting. Every phrase you learn here can be reused in dozens of other situations.
Let’s take a look at some of the key expressions used at payment counters, especially involving cards, points, and promotional items.
💰 Payment & Promotions Phrase Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 카드요 | kadeu-yo | Card, please |
| 현금이요 | hyeongeum-i-yo | Cash, please |
| 영수증 드릴까요? | yeongsujeung deurilkkayo? | Would you like a receipt? |
| 포인트 적립할게요 | pointeu jeongnip halgeyo | I’d like to earn points |
| 이거 행사 중이에요? | igeo haengsa jung-ieyo? | Is this on promotion? |
Whether you’re saving points, checking a deal, or just paying, these simple expressions help you move smoothly and confidently in Korean stores.
🚫 Common Mistakes Foreigners Make
Learning Korean for shopping is exciting, but it’s easy to pick up habits that sound awkward, unnatural, or even rude — especially if you directly translate from English. By understanding some of the most common mistakes, you can avoid confusion and make better, smoother connections with staff.
One of the most frequent issues is being too direct. For example, saying “깎아 줘요” (kkakka jwoyo) — “Give me a discount” might sound aggressive if you don't use softeners like “조금만 깎아주실 수 있어요?” (jogeumman kkakkajusil su isseoyo?) — “Could you possibly give me a small discount?”
Another problem is mispronouncing borrowed words. “Coke” becomes “코크” (kokeu) in Korean, but many foreigners say it too fast or with the wrong accent, leading to confusion. Learning the Koreanized version of brand names really helps!
Some learners get stuck using the same phrase for everything. Repeating “이거 주세요” (igeo juseyo) over and over can sound robotic. Mix it up with “이거 하나 주세요” (igeo hana juseyo) — “Please give me one of these,” or “이거 포장해 주세요” (igeo pojanghae juseyo) — “Please wrap this.”
Also, silence at the counter is often seen as hesitation or lack of confidence. A friendly “안녕하세요” (annyeonghaseyo) or even a smile goes a long way. Staff may treat you with more kindness if you make a small effort to engage.
Another mistake is forgetting to use honorifics. Saying “줘” (jwo) instead of “주세요” (juseyo) makes a big difference in politeness. The latter is polite and expected in stores. Even native speakers get uncomfortable with overly casual tone in public.
Sometimes, foreigners try to use full sentences too early, and the grammar comes out wrong. Instead of struggling, use short, polite chunks like “이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo?) or “계산할게요” (gyesanhalgeyo) — “I’ll pay now.”
Focus on clarity, not speed. Speaking slowly but clearly with accurate pronunciation is far better than rushing through sentences. In Korea, tone and delivery matter more than perfect grammar.
Finally, don’t assume “no response” means rejection. Sometimes staff are just shy or unsure of their English, and will nod or gesture. Keep a friendly attitude, and don't let small miscommunications shake your confidence.
💡 Speaking Mistakes Foreigners Make While Shopping (and How to Fix Them)
| Mistake Type | Why It’s a Problem | Better Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Saying nothing at the register | Comes across as rude or confused |
Say “계산할게요” (gyesanhalgeyo) |
| Using machine-translated phrases | Sounds unnatural or confusing |
Use native expressions like “이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo?) |
| Repeating the same phrase | Sounds robotic and unprepared |
Try variety: “이거 주세요” / “하나 더 주세요” (igeo juseyo / hana deo juseyo) |
| Speaking too directly (e.g. “Discount!”) | Can sound aggressive or rude |
Try “조금만 깎아주실 수 있나요?” (jogeumman kkakajusil su innayo?) |
| Hesitating due to fear of mistakes | Delays interaction and shows insecurity | Speak slowly and clearly — mistakes are okay! |
If you learn from these mistakes, your Korean becomes not just more correct — but more human and natural. That's the real goal when interacting with people, especially in everyday moments like shopping.
🎭 Creating Real-Life Practice Scenarios
Learning vocabulary is one thing. Using it confidently in the real world is another. In this section, we’ll walk through actual shopping situations you’re likely to face in Korea — at grocery stores and convenience stores. Practicing these mini-dialogues can boost your fluency and reduce anxiety.
Let’s start with a basic situation: You're in a CU store and want to buy a sandwich and banana milk. You also want to use the microwave. You can say:
“이거 계산할게요. 전자레인지 써도 돼요?” (igeo gyesanhalgeyo. jeonjaraeinji sseo-do dwaeyo?) → “I’ll pay for this. Can I use the microwave?”
Imagine you’re at a GS25 at midnight. You buy soju and instant noodles. The staff asks: “신분증 있으세요?” (sinbunjeung isseuseyo?) → “Do you have an ID?” This is normal after 10pm when buying alcohol.
You want a bag, so respond with: “네, 봉투 하나 주세요.” (ne, bongtu hana juseyo) → “Yes, one bag, please.”
Now let’s try a grocery store scene. You're at Homeplus, and you want to know the price of some tangerines. You ask: “이 귤 얼마예요?” (i gyul eolmayeyo?) → “How much are these tangerines?”
Maybe you're looking for tofu and can’t find it. You ask a staff member: “두부 어디에 있어요?” (dubu eodie isseoyo?) → “Where is the tofu?”
You’re interested in a 1+1 snack promotion and want to make sure it applies. Ask: “이거 1+1 맞아요?” (igeo il peulleos il majayo?) → “Is this really buy one get one?”
After shopping, you want to earn points. Say: “포인트 적립할게요.” (pointeu jeongnip halgeyo) → “I’d like to collect points.”
You can build your own dialogues using these templates. Think of what you'd really say in your language, and then build the Korean version from these pieces.
Short practice sessions daily — even 5 minutes — are better than long, occasional cramming. Make your shopping routine your Korean classroom!
🧾 Practice Dialogue Snippets
| English Situation | Korean Phrase | Romanization |
|---|---|---|
| Asking for a bag | 봉투 하나 주세요 | bongtu hana juseyo |
| Looking for an item | 두부 어디에 있어요? | dubu eodie isseoyo? |
| Confirming promotion | 이거 1+1 맞아요? | igeo il peulleos il majayo? |
| Using microwave | 전자레인지 써도 돼요? | jeonjaraeinji sseo-do dwaeyo? |
| Paying with card | 카드요 | kadeu-yo |
By practicing these short situations, you’ll be ready to handle real shopping moments with confidence — and maybe even surprise a cashier or two!
🧾 FAQ
Q1. When should I use “주세요” (juseyo)?
A1. Use it when asking for something politely, like “Water, please” → "물 주세요" (mul juseyo).
Q2. Is there an alternative to “이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo)?
A2. Yes, you can also ask “가격이 어떻게 돼요?” (gagyeogi eotteoke dwaeyo?) — “How much is it?”
Q3. Do I have to pay for plastic bags?
A3. Usually, yes — about 100 KRW. Say “봉투 주세요” (bongtu juseyo) — “Bag, please.”
Q4. Can I use the microwave at convenience stores?
A4. Yes! Most stores allow it. Ask: “전자레인지 써도 돼요?” (jeonjaraeinji sseo-do dwaeyo?)
Q5. How do I confirm if something is on promotion like 1+1?
A5. Ask the clerk: “이거 행사 중이에요?” (igeo haengsa jung-ieyo?) — “Is this on promotion?”
Q6. What should I say at checkout?
A6. You can say “계산할게요” (gyesanhalgeyo) — “I’ll pay now.” Or just hand over your items.
Q7. How do I say I want to collect points?
A7. Say “포인트 적립할게요” (pointeu jeongnip halgeyo) — “I’d like to earn points.”
Q8. When do stores ask for ID?
A8. When buying alcohol or cigarettes, especially after 10 PM. You’ll hear: “신분증 있으세요?” (sinbunjeung isseuseyo?) — “Do you have an ID?”
Q9. What if my pronunciation isn’t perfect?
A9. Don’t worry! Speak slowly and clearly. Staff will appreciate your effort.
Q10. Is it okay to ask for discounts?
A10. Not at major supermarkets. But in traditional markets, you can say “조금만 깎아주세요” (jogeumman kkakka juseyo) — “Can you lower the price a bit?”
Q11. Is it rude to ask “What is this?”
A11. Not at all! “이거 뭐예요?” (igeo mwoyeyo?) shows interest and curiosity.
Q12. Should I say thank you after paying?
A12. It’s polite! Say “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida) with a smile — it leaves a good impression.
Q13. How do I ask for multiple items?
A13. Just say the number + “개 주세요.” For example: “이거 세 개 주세요” (igeo se gae juseyo) — “Three of these, please.”
Q14. Can I check the expiration date?
A14. Yes, it’s usually on the back or bottom. Ask: “유통기한 어디 있어요?” (yutonggihan eodi isseoyo?)
Q15. What if staff speak too fast?
A15. Politely ask: “천천히 말해 주세요” (cheoncheonhi malhae juseyo) — “Please speak slowly.”
Q16. Do convenience stores offer shipping services?
A16. Yes, some (CU, GS25) do. Say: “택배 보내고 싶어요” (taekbae bonaego sipeoyo) — “I’d like to send a parcel.”
Q17. Can I cook food at the convenience store?
A17. Yes! You can use the microwave and get hot water. Ask: “뜨거운 물 있어요?” (tteugeoun mul isseoyo?)
Q18. Can foreigners use credit cards?
A18. Absolutely. Most stores accept VISA, Mastercard, and global cards without issue.
Q19. What if there’s a long line at the register?
A19. Staff may guide you to another register by saying: “다음 계산대로 가 주세요” (daeum gyesandaero ga juseyo) — “Please go to the next register.”
Q20. Can I swap items before paying?
A20. Yes, just say: “이거 바꿀게요” (igeo bakkulgeyo) — “I’ll change this.”
Q21. How do I say “Just looking” if I don’t want help?
A21. Politely say: “그냥 보고 있어요” (geunyang bogo isseoyo) — “I’m just looking.”
Q22. What do I say if I want something in a different color?
A22. Say: “다른 색 있어요?” (dareun saek isseoyo?) — “Do you have another color?”
Q23. How do I ask if a product is in stock?
A23. Ask: “이거 재고 있어요?” (igeo jaego isseoyo?) — “Do you have this in stock?”
Q24. Can I ask for a receipt?
A24. Yes! Say: “영수증 주세요” (yeongsujeung juseyo) — “Receipt, please.”
Q25. How do I ask where the bathroom is?
A25. Say: “화장실 어디예요?” (hwajangsil eodiyeyo?) — “Where’s the restroom?”
Q26. How can I politely ask to try something?
A26. Say: “이거 먹어봐도 돼요?” (igeo meogeobwado dwaeyo?) — “Can I try this?”
Q27. What’s a polite way to ask if an item is available in another size?
A27. Ask: “다른 사이즈 있어요?” (dareun saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have another size?”
Q28. How do I say “I don’t need a bag”?
A28. Politely say: “봉투 괜찮아요” (bongtu gwaenchanayo) — “I don’t need a bag.”
Q29. What if I want to cancel an item at the register?
A29. Say: “이거 빼 주세요” (igeo ppae juseyo) — “Please remove this item.”
Q30. What should I say if I didn’t understand the clerk?
A30. Say: “다시 말해 주세요” (dasi malhae juseyo) — “Please say it again.”
📘 Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is intended to help learners understand and practice Korean language used in shopping contexts. Situations and expressions may vary based on location and setting.
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