Shop in Korean Like a Local: Sizes, Prices and Phrases Made Easy

Shopping in Korea can be a fun and exciting experience—if you know what to say! Whether you're in a bustling street market or a sleek department store, being able to ask for sizes, colors, and prices in Korean can make your trip smoother and much more enjoyable.

This guide will walk you through essential Korean phrases used in real shopping situations, complete with pronunciation, cultural tips, and example dialogues. 

Designed for beginners and self-learners, it's your step-by-step language passport to shop like a local.

📏 Asking About Sizes

When shopping in Korea, knowing how to ask about sizes is a must—especially for clothes and shoes. Unlike Western sizing systems, Korea typically uses centimeters for most size measurements, so it can feel unfamiliar at first.

 

The most common phrase you’ll use is “이거 다른 사이즈 있어요?” (igeo dareun saijeu isseoyo?) which means “Do you have this in another size?” You can use this at any store when you like a product but need a different size.

 

For example, if you're trying on a jacket that's too tight, point to it and say that phrase. If you want to be specific, add the size you’re looking for: “라지 사이즈 있어요?” (raji saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have size large?”

 

Korean clothing sizes can be tricky. You’ll often see letters like S, M, L (pronounced 에스, 엠, 엘 — eseu, em, el), but Korean brands may run smaller than Western ones. So don’t be surprised if you usually wear M abroad but need an L in Korea.

 

Another helpful phrase is “입어봐도 돼요?” (ibeobwado dwaeyo?) which means “Can I try it on?” Fitting rooms are common in most stores, but smaller shops may not always offer them.

 

If you want to ask if they have your size in stock without pointing to a product, say “제 사이즈 있어요?” (je saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have my size?” It’s vague, but the staff might help you find the right one if you show interest.

 

In Korea, shoe sizes are based on millimeters. For example, a typical women's US 7 is about 240mm (이백사십 — ibaeksasip). Ask: “240 사이즈 있어요?” (i-baek-sa-sip saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have size 240?”

 

If the item is too big, say: “좀 큰 것 같아요” (jom keun geot gatayo) — “It seems a bit big.” Or if it’s small, try: “좀 작은 것 같아요” (jom jageun geot gatayo) — “It feels a bit small.”

 

These phrases are not only helpful for communicating, but they also show politeness—something highly valued in Korean customer interactions.

 

If you're shopping for someone else, specify gender or age. For example, “남자용 있어요?” (namja-yong isseoyo?) — “Do you have a men’s version?” or “아이 사이즈 있어요?” (ai saijeu isseoyo?) — “Do you have children’s size?”

📏 Useful Size-Related Phrases

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
이거 다른 사이즈 있어요?	igeo dareun saijeu isseoyo?	Do you have this in another size?
입어봐도 돼요?	ibeobwado dwaeyo?	Can I try it on?
240 사이즈 있어요?	i-baek-sa-sip saijeu isseoyo?	Do you have size 240?
좀 큰 것 같아요	jom keun geot gatayo	It feels a bit big
남자용 있어요?	namja-yong isseoyo?	Do you have a men’s version?

 

Mastering size-related phrases will not only help you get the right fit, but it’ll also make you more confident and respectful in Korean shops.

 

🎨 Talking About Colors

Color is a big deal in Korean shopping culture—especially in fashion and beauty. If you want a different color, it’s important to ask clearly and politely.

 

The phrase “다른 색 있어요?” (dareun saek isseoyo?) means “Do you have another color?” and it’s one of the most useful expressions when browsing.

 

For example, if you’re looking at a black jacket and prefer navy, you can ask: “네이비 색 있어요?” (neibi saek isseoyo?). Many color words are borrowed from English, but pronounced differently.

 

Korean color names often include both native Korean and Konglish versions. For instance, “하얀색” (hayan-saek) means “white,” and is more formal than just saying “white” in Konglish. If you're shopping for makeup, you'll hear things like “로즈” (rojeu) for “rose” or “코랄” (koral) for “coral.”

 

You can combine colors with item names. For example: “검은색 신발 있어요?” (geomeunsaek sinbal isseoyo?) — “Do you have black shoes?”

 

If you want to ask for a specific item in a certain color, use: “[Color] + [Item] 있어요?” For example: “빨간 가방 있어요?” (ppalgan gabang isseoyo?) — “Do you have a red bag?”

 

Colors can also carry different cultural meanings in Korea. Red is energetic and passionate, often used in fashion to stand out. White represents purity, black is sleek and modern. Keep these connotations in mind when choosing items.

 

If you don’t like the color of something, you can say: “이 색 별로예요” (i saek byeolloyeyo) — “I don’t really like this color.”

 

Shops in Korea often display one color on the shelf, but keep others in stock. Don’t hesitate to ask—it’s very common for staff to bring other options from the back.

 

Learning how to name colors will give you more control and make your shopping more personal and efficient.

🎨 Common Colors in Korean

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
빨간색	ppalgansaek	Red
파란색	paransaek	Blue
하얀색	hayansaek	White
검은색	geomeunsaek	Black
노란색	noransaek	Yellow

 

Don’t be afraid to explore color variety—many stores will happily offer more than what you see on display!

💰 Asking for Prices & Payment

Asking the price of something in Korean is one of the first things every learner wants to know. And with so many shops and markets, you’ll use this phrase a lot. The most essential question is:

 

“이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo?) – “How much is this?” This is polite and safe to use in any situation—from street stalls to department stores.

 

If you want to be more specific, you can point and ask “이 셔츠 얼마예요?” (i syeocheu eolmayeyo?) — “How much is this shirt?” Replace the noun depending on the item.

 

In some cases, prices are already displayed, but if not, asking is expected. Don’t worry—it’s not rude at all. In fact, most staff expect the question and will gladly answer.

 

When you're ready to pay, staff may ask: “현금이세요, 카드세요?” (hyeongeum-iseyo, kadeu-seyo?) – “Cash or card?” This is super common at the checkout counter.

 

To answer, just say “카드요” (kadeu-yo) – “Card” or “현금이요” (hyeongeum-iyo) – “Cash.” No need for full sentences here—short answers are fine.

 

If you want to ask whether card is accepted, say “카드 돼요?” (kadeu dwaeyo?) – “Do you take card?” Some older or smaller stores might only accept cash.

 

You may also hear “부가세 포함인가요?” (bugasae poham-ingayo?) — “Is VAT included?” It’s rare in small purchases, but more common in electronics or online shopping. Usually, taxes are included in the displayed price.

 

If you're buying multiple items, you can ask “다 합쳐서 얼마예요?” (da hapchyeoseo eolmayeyo?) — “How much is it all together?” Very useful for bulk shopping or sets.

 

Also, if you need a receipt, say: “영수증 주세요” (yeongsujeung juseyo) – “Please give me a receipt.” Some stores won’t automatically print one unless you ask.

💳 Price & Payment Expressions

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
이거 얼마예요?	igeo eolmayeyo?	How much is this?
현금이세요, 카드세요?	hyeongeum-iseyo, kadeu-seyo?	Cash or card?
카드 돼요?	kadeu dwaeyo?	Do you take card?
영수증 주세요	yeongsujeung juseyo	Please give me a receipt
다 합쳐서 얼마예요?	da hapchyeoseo eolmayeyo?	How much is it all together?

 

Being able to ask about prices and payments clearly will make you feel more in control and avoid confusion—especially in cash-only shops or markets.

 

🧾 Bargaining & Discounts

Bargaining is a fun part of shopping in traditional Korean markets like Namdaemun, Dongdaemun, or Gwangjang Market. But it’s not usually done in department stores or brand-name shops.

 

If you're in a place where bargaining is okay, the magic phrase is: “좀 깎아주세요” (jom kkakkajuseyo) – “Please give me a discount.”

 

It’s polite and commonly used. If you want to be more casual (like in a small street stall), you can also say “좀만 깎아주세요” (jommang kkakkajuseyo) – “Just a little discount, please.”

 

You might also ask, “세일해요?” (seilhaeyo?) — “Is it on sale?” This is useful in fashion stores and boutiques. When you hear “세일 중이에요” (seil jung-ieyo), it means “It’s currently on sale.”

 

In Korean culture, being friendly and smiling often helps in bargaining. Sellers are more likely to offer discounts if you show genuine interest and kindness.

 

If you're buying more than one item, say: “여러 개 사면 할인 돼요?” (yeoreo gae samyeon harin dwaeyo?) – “Can I get a discount if I buy several?” This works well for souvenirs or accessories.

 

Another expression is “현금으로 하면 더 할인돼요?” (hyeongeumeuro hamyeon deo harin dwaeyo?) – “Is it cheaper if I pay in cash?” Some sellers prefer cash and may offer a small discount.

 

If the price is too high, you can politely say: “조금 비싸요” (jogeum bissayo) – “It’s a bit expensive.” This is softer than saying it’s too expensive, and it opens the door to negotiation.

 

In some situations, sellers may say “최저가예요” (choejeoggayeyo) – “This is the lowest price.” If you hear that, it usually means no more discounts will be offered.

 

In my experience, using these phrases with a smile almost always made the seller warm up and sometimes give a freebie too. It’s a cultural exchange as much as a transaction!

💬 Bargaining & Discount Expressions

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
좀 깎아주세요	jom kkakkajuseyo	Please give me a discount
세일해요?	seilhaeyo?	Is it on sale?
현금으로 하면 더 할인돼요?	hyeongeumeuro hamyeon deo harin dwaeyo?	Is it cheaper with cash?
여러 개 사면 할인 돼요?	yeoreo gae samyeon harin dwaeyo?	Discount for buying multiple?
조금 비싸요	jogeum bissayo	It's a bit expensive

 

Knowing how to politely ask for a discount in Korean makes your trip more fun—and you might just score a great deal!

🛍️ Useful Expressions for Shopping

Now that you know how to ask for sizes, colors, and prices, it's time to learn some versatile expressions that you can mix and match depending on the situation.

 

One of the most common expressions is “이거 있어요?” (igeo isseoyo?) — “Do you have this?” It’s a great starter if you’re pointing to something or showing a photo on your phone.

 

If you're looking for something specific, say “~ 있어요?” using the item name. For example, “스커트 있어요?” (seukeoteu isseoyo?) — “Do you have skirts?”

 

Want to ask for recommendations? Use “추천해 주세요” (chucheonhae juseyo) — “Please recommend something.” This is perfect in cosmetic stores or when shopping for gifts.

 

If something catches your eye, express interest with “예뻐요” (yeppeoyo) — “It’s pretty” or “좋아요” (joayo) — “I like it.” It opens up friendly conversation and might even help with discounts!

 

Not sure yet? Say “좀 더 볼게요” (jom deo bolgeyo) — “I’ll look around a bit more.” It’s polite and helps you leave the shop without pressure.

 

If you're finished shopping and want to wrap up politely, say “수고하세요” (sugohaseyo) — a courteous way to thank the staff as you leave. It means “Thanks for your effort” and is very common in Korea.

 

You can also say “괜찮아요” (gwaenchana-yo) — “It’s okay” if you want to decline help or say no without sounding rude. Use it with a smile!

 

Another handy one: “다른 거 보여주세요” (dareun geo boyeojuseyo) — “Please show me something else.” Use this when browsing options and you’re not sure yet.

 

These phrases are designed to make your shopping smoother and help you interact naturally with Korean staff—even with beginner-level skills.

🛒 Must-Know Shopping Phrases

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
이거 있어요?	igeo isseoyo?	Do you have this?
추천해 주세요	chucheonhae juseyo	Please recommend something
좀 더 볼게요	jom deo bolgeyo	I'll look around more
수고하세요	sugohaseyo	Thank you for your effort
다른 거 보여주세요	dareun geo boyeojuseyo	Please show me something else

 

Using even just a few of these expressions will boost your confidence and help you connect with locals while shopping.

 

🧎 Shopping Etiquette & Local Tips

In Korea, shopping isn’t just about buying—it’s a social interaction. The way you talk, your tone, and even your facial expression matter. That’s why understanding etiquette can help you have smoother experiences while exploring local shops.

 

First rule: Be polite and respectful. Always start with a greeting like “안녕하세요” (annyeonghaseyo) when you enter a shop. This sets a friendly tone and shows appreciation for the staff’s presence.

 

Even if you’re just browsing, a smile and “그냥 보고 있어요” (geunyang bogo isseoyo) — “I’m just looking” is a gentle way to respond when approached by staff. It’s better than ignoring them.

 

In many smaller shops, staff might follow you or stay close. It’s not meant to pressure you—it’s considered attentive service in Korean culture. A quick “괜찮아요” (gwaenchanayo) — “It’s okay” reassures them.

 

If you want to leave without buying anything, saying “다음에 올게요” (daeume olgeyo) — “I’ll come back next time” is polite and well-received. It softens the rejection and keeps things friendly.

 

Avoid speaking loudly or rushing staff. In Korean culture, being calm and composed is seen as respectful, especially in enclosed spaces like boutiques.

 

It’s also helpful to bring cash in markets or small stalls, as some may not accept cards. Saying “현금밖에 없어요” (hyeongeumbakke eopseoyo) — “I only have cash” prepares the seller.

 

If you're shopping for gifts, it’s common to ask for gift wrapping. Say: “포장해 주세요” (pojanghae juseyo) — “Please wrap it.” Many stores offer this for free, especially in cosmetics or accessories.

 

When you receive help or get a discount, showing gratitude is key. Use “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida) — “Thank you” sincerely. Even a small thank you can make a big impression.

🙏 Etiquette Phrases & Local Tips

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
안녕하세요	annyeonghaseyo	Hello
그냥 보고 있어요	geunyang bogo isseoyo	I’m just looking
다음에 올게요	daeume olgeyo	I’ll come back next time
포장해 주세요	pojanghae juseyo	Please wrap it
감사합니다	gamsahamnida	Thank you

 

Respecting local customs not only helps you shop better but also builds bridges between cultures—and that’s a big part of language learning!

❓ FAQ

Q1. How do I say "How much is this?" in Korean?

A1. You say “이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo?) — It’s the most common and polite way to ask the price.

 

Q2. Can I ask for a discount in Korean shops?

A2. Yes, especially in markets! Say “좀 깎아주세요” (jom kkakkajuseyo) — “Please give me a discount.”

 

Q3. How do I say "Do you have this in another color?"

A3. Say “다른 색 있어요?” (dareun saek isseoyo?). Very handy when choosing between colors.

 

Q4. What's the word for "size" in Korean?

A4. The word is “사이즈” (saijeu), borrowed from English. Use it like: “L 사이즈 있어요?” — “Do you have size L?”

 

Q5. How can I ask "Can I try it on?"

A5. Say “입어봐도 돼요?” (ibeobwado dwaeyo?) — It means “Is it okay if I try it on?”

 

Q6. What's the Korean for "receipt"?

A6. It’s “영수증” (yeongsujeung). You can ask for it by saying “영수증 주세요” — “Please give me a receipt.”

 

Q7. How do I say "I'm just looking"?

A7. Say “그냥 보고 있어요” (geunyang bogo isseoyo). It’s a polite way to decline help.

 

Q8. How can I ask "Is this on sale?"

A8. You can say “세일해요?” (seilhaeyo?) — Very useful during seasonal sales.

 

Q9. What's the best way to ask for help in a shop?

A9. Simply say “도와주세요” (dowajuseyo) — “Please help me.” Or “이거 좀 도와주세요” (igeo jom dowajuseyo) — “Please help me with this.”

 

Q10. How do I say "Do you have gift wrapping?"

A10. Ask “포장해 주세요” (pojanghae juseyo) — It means “Please wrap it” and is very common in cosmetics or gift stores.

 

Q11. What if I don’t understand the price they say?

A11. You can ask “다시 말해 주세요” (dashi malhae juseyo) — “Please say it again.” Or “천천히 말해 주세요” (cheoncheonhi malhae juseyo) — “Please speak slowly.”

 

Q12. How do I ask if a store accepts card?

A12. Say “카드 돼요?” (kadeu dwaeyo?) — “Do you accept card?” It’s short and polite.

 

Q13. How do I say “Too expensive” in Korean?

A13. “너무 비싸요” (neomu bissayo) — But be careful! Instead, try “조금 비싸요” (jogeum bissayo) — “It’s a bit expensive” for softer tone.

 

Q14. How do I say "I like this one"?

A14. Say “이거 좋아요” (igeo joayo) — Simple, clear, and very common when showing interest.

 

Q15. Can I return items in Korean stores?

A15. Usually not in street markets. In brand stores, say “환불 돼요?” (hwanbul dwaeyo?) — “Can I get a refund?” or “교환 돼요?” (gyohwan dwaeyo?) — “Can I exchange this?”

 

Q16. How do I ask for a larger or smaller size?

A16. Use “더 큰 거 있어요?” (deo keun geo isseoyo?) — “Do you have a bigger one?” Or “더 작은 거 있어요?” (deo jageun geo isseoyo?) — “Do you have a smaller one?”

 

Q17. How do I compliment a product in Korean?

A17. Use “예뻐요” (yeppeoyo) — “It’s pretty” or “좋아요” (joayo) — “I like it.” Great for connecting with shopkeepers.

 

Q18. What if I only have cash?

A18. Say “현금밖에 없어요” (hyeongeumbakke eopseoyo) — “I only have cash.” Staff will appreciate the heads-up!

 

Q19. How do I say "It's okay" or "I'm fine"?

A19. Say “괜찮아요” (gwaenchana-yo) — Great for declining politely or easing tension.

 

Q20. What’s a polite phrase when leaving a shop?

A20. Say “수고하세요” (sugohaseyo) — A kind phrase meaning “Thanks for your effort” as you walk out.

 

Q21. Can I speak English in Korean shops?

A21. In tourist areas, yes. But basic Korean phrases like “이거 얼마예요?” (igeo eolmayeyo?) help a lot and show effort.

 

Q22. What's the best tone to use when shopping in Korean?

A22. Use a polite tone. Phrases ending in “-요” (yo) are standard and respectful. Avoid overly casual endings like “-해” unless you’re with close friends.

 

Q23. How do I say "Can I see that one?"

A23. Say “저거 보여주세요” (jeo-geo boyeojuseyo) — “Please show me that one.” Use with pointing.

 

Q24. What’s the difference between “이거” and “저거”?

A24. “이거” (igeo) = this (near you), “저거” (jeo-geo) = that (farther away). Location matters!

 

Q25. Can I negotiate in Korean supermarkets?

A25. No, supermarkets have fixed prices. Bargaining is usually limited to traditional markets or street vendors.

 

Q26. How do I say "How much is everything together?"

A26. Say “다 합쳐서 얼마예요?” (da hapchyeoseo eolmayeyo?) — Super useful for buying sets or multiple items.

 

Q27. What should I say if I want to cancel an item?

A27. Say “이거 빼주세요” (igeo ppaejuseyo) — “Please remove this.” Use it at checkout or when reconsidering an item.

 

Q28. What’s a polite way to say “No, thank you”?

A28. Say “괜찮아요, 감사합니다” (gwaenchana-yo, gamsahamnida) — Gentle and respectful way to decline help.

 

Q29. Should I bow when saying thank you?

A29. A small nod or bow is appreciated, especially with “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida). It’s a nice gesture of respect.

 

Q30. Is it okay to just say “안녕” when shopping?

A30. No. “안녕” is too casual. Use “안녕하세요” (annyeonghaseyo) for all shopping situations to stay polite and appropriate.

 

📘 Disclaimer:

All Korean phrases and expressions in this article are provided for educational and language learning purposes only. Cultural interpretations are based on general practices and may vary by region or context.