If you're planning a trip to South Korea and love shopping as much as I do, then listen up — because this travel tip will seriously stretch your Ringgit! 💸 As a Malaysian traveler, I was thrilled to discover that Korea offers tax refunds for tourists on a wide range of purchases. From K-beauty and skincare to trendy fashion and electronics, you can claim a portion of your spending back — and it's surprisingly easy.
Whether you're visiting Seoul, Busan, or Jeju, knowing how the Korean VAT refund system works can save you hundreds of ringgit. 🧴👗📱
✨ Ready to shop smart in Korea?
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In this post, I’ll share exactly how tax refunds in Korea work, how much you can get back, whether you’re eligible, and my own step-by-step guide — all from firsthand experience. Let’s make sure you don’t miss out on the savings! 💼✈️
🧐 What is a Korean Tax Refund?
source from https://www.koreaetour.com/
When you shop in Korea, you pay something called VAT (Value Added Tax), which is 10% on most products.
As a non-Korean tourist, you’re actually entitled to get some of that tax refunded back to you, either at the airport or — in some cases — instantly in the store. It’s like getting a mini “cashback” just for shopping.
💰 How Much is VAT in Korea?
VAT in Korea is 10%. That’s quite a bit, especially if you’re spending on skincare, fashion, or electronics. So yes, it’s definitely worth claiming!
🔙 How Much Can I Get Back?
On average, you’ll get back about 5%–8% of the purchase price, after processing fees. I spent around RM2,000 on shopping, and got back close to RM150. Not bad, right?
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👤 Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund?
Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
Nationality | Non-Korean citizens (yes, Malaysians qualify!) |
Stay Duration | Less than 6 months in Korea |
Minimum Purchase | KRW 15,000 (approx. RM 55) per receipt |
Departure Timeline | Must leave Korea within 3 months of purchase |
Item Condition | Items must be new and unused (not opened or used before refund) |
🛍️ How Do Tax Refunds Work in Korea?
Simple: shop, save your receipts, claim refund. Korea is very tourist-friendly when it comes to this — many shops even display “Tax Free” signs. You’ll get a special refund receipt when you purchase something over KRW 30,000 (about RM110) in one transaction.
You can claim your tax back either:
- 💵 Instantly at the store (for purchases under KRW 500,000/day)
- ✈️ At the airport when you’re flying home
💸 Types of Tax Refunds in Korea
1. Immediate Tax Refund (in-store)
- Valid for purchases between KRW 15,000 and KRW 1,000,000 per receipt
- Daily total purchase limit for immediate refund: KRW 5,000,000
- Must present your passport at checkout
- You receive your VAT refund instantly, deducted from the total
2. Airport Tax Refund
If your purchase exceeds the in-store refund limit, or the store doesn’t offer instant refunds:
- Get your tax refund slip when you shop.
- Keep the items unused and your receipts.
- At the airport:
- Go to the Customs Declaration Counter before immigration
- Show your passport, receipts, and purchased goods
- Get a stamp/approval, then proceed to the tax refund counter/kiosk after security
- Receive your refund in cash (KRW/USD) or to your credit card
3. Downtown Refund Counters
Some cities (like Seoul) offer tax refund counters in popular shopping areas, but:
- Each invoice must not exceed KRW 6,000,000
- You’ll still need to show proof of departure within 3 months
📊 Summary Table
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
VAT Rate in Korea | 10% on most products |
Refund Amount | Usually 5–8% after service fees |
Minimum Spend | KRW 15,000 per receipt |
Max for Instant Refund | KRW 1,000,000 per receipt (max KRW 5,000,000/day) |
Eligible Stores | Look for “Tax Free” or “Tax Refund” signs |
Refund Methods | Cash, Credit Card, Alipay/WeChat Pay (in some cases) |
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🧭 How Do I Get a Tax Refund in Korea?
✅ Step 1: Shop at Participating Stores
Look for shops with the “Tax Free”, “Global Blue”, or “Easy Tax Refund” logos. I saw them in Myeongdong, Hongdae, Ewha, Lotte Department Store — basically all the popular spots.
✅ Step 2: Show Your Passport at Checkout
Ask the cashier for a tax refund receipt. They’ll need to scan your passport (so jangan lupa bawa ya!).
✅ Step 3: Keep Your Receipts & Items
Store your receipts safely, and don’t use the items yet — they might need to see them at the airport.
✅ Step 4: Go to the Airport Early
I went to Incheon Airport. Go at least 3 hours early if you’re claiming refund — especially if you have many receipts.
✅ Step 5: Find the Tax Refund Kiosk or Counter
At major airports like Incheon, Gimpo, Jeju, follow signs for "Tax Refund" or go to a kiosk for:
- 🟦 Global Blue
- 🟧 Global Tax Free
- 🟪 Easy Tax Refund
Scan your receipts, and sometimes they’ll inspect the items. If everything’s OK, you’ll get your refund in cash (KRW/USD) or credited to your card. Go before immigration to get approval, and then collect your refund after security.
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Global Blue | Global Tax Free | Easy Tax Refund |
|---|---|---|---|
Logo Colors | Blue | Orange | Green/other |
City refund per receipt | ≈₩390k limit | ₩15k–₩6M | ₩15k–₩6M |
Immediate refund? | Yes (in-store) | Yes | Yes |
Immediate limits | ≤₩1M per purchase, ≤₩5M total | Same | Same |
Airport refund | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Refund methods | Cash, card, Alipay, PayPal, etc. | Cash, cards, Alipay, WeChat | Cash, card |
Service fees vary | Yes | Yes | Yes |
💸 Is It Worth Getting a Tax Refund in Korea?
Definitely YES! Especially for Malaysians who love to shop smart. I mean, if you’re already spending, might as well get something back kan? Even if it’s just RM50–100, it can cover a nice meal or extra souvenirs at the airport. 🍜🎁
💡 Tax Refund Tips in Korea
Here are a few quick tips I picked up:
- 📷 Take photos of your receipts in case you lose them
- 🧴 Don’t open or use items until after refund claim
- 🏪 Shop in big department stores for easier refund processing
- 💳 Choose cash refund at the airport for faster results
- 🧾 Combine receipts from the same day/store if you’re short of the minimum
🧳 Final Thoughts on Tax Refund in Korea
After going through the full experience myself, I can confidently say — getting a tax refund in Korea is 100% worth it! 💰 Whether you're spending big on K-beauty, fashion, or tech gadgets, those VAT refunds can really add up. And the best part? The whole process is super tourist-friendly — especially if you follow the right steps.
As a Malaysian traveler who loves good deals (who doesn’t? 😉), I found the Korean tax refund system efficient, quick, and rewarding. So don’t leave money on the table — claim those refunds and treat yourself to an extra coffee, bingsu, or maybe even a final round of duty-free shopping at the airport! 🛍️✈️☕
If you're planning your trip now, make sure to check flights and hotel deals ahead of time — Korea’s calling! 🌸🎶
👉 Book your flight to Korea now on Trip.com
👉 Find the best hotels in Seoul here
Frequently Asked Questions
❓1. What is a tax refund in Korea?
A tax refund in Korea allows foreign tourists to claim back part of the Value Added Tax (VAT) — typically 10% — on eligible purchases made during their stay. You can get this refund at the airport or sometimes instantly in-store.❓2. Who is eligible for a tax refund in Korea?
You’re a non-Korean tourist (e.g., from Malaysia 🇲🇾) You stay in Korea less than 6 months You purchase goods over KRW 15,000 in a single receipt You leave Korea within 3 months of purchase The goods are unused and will be taken out of the country❓3. How much is the VAT in Korea?
The standard VAT rate in Korea is 10%. However, your actual refund (after admin fees) is usually around 5–8% of the purchase price.❓4. What kind of items are eligible for tax refund?
Most physical goods are eligible, including: 💄 Cosmetics & skincare 👕 Clothing & accessories 🎧 Electronics & gadgets 🎁 Souvenirs Services, food, or items consumed in Korea (like hotel stays or restaurant bills) are not eligible.❓5. What’s the minimum spending required for a tax refund?
Minimum per receipt: KRW 15,000 (about RM 55) For in-store instant refunds, the maximum per purchase is KRW 1,000,000 Total daily refund cap: KRW 5,000,000 for instant refund (no cap if claiming at airport)❓6. How do I get a tax refund in Korea?
You can either: 💵 Get instant refund at the store (passport required) 🛫 Or claim your refund at the airport before departure using your receipts and purchased items❓7. Where do I claim my refund at the airport?
At major airports like Incheon, Gimpo, Jeju, follow signs for "Tax Refund" or go to a kiosk for: Global Blue Global Tax Free Easy Tax Refund Go before immigration to get approval, and then collect your refund after security.❓8. Can I get my refund in cash?
Yes! You can choose: 💵 Cash (KRW or USD) 💳 Credit card refund (may take a few weeks) 📱 Some stores even support Alipay/WeChat Pay❓9. Can I shop online and still get a tax refund?
Yes — many Korean duty-free websites let you pre-order online (e.g., Lotte, Shilla), and pick up at the airport. You'll still be eligible for the tax refund if you meet the conditions.❓10. What if I lose my receipts?
Unfortunately, original receipts and tax refund slips are required. If you took photos, some kiosks might accept them — but it’s not guaranteed. Always keep your receipts safe!❓11. Are duty-free items the same as tax-refunded items?
Not exactly. Duty-Free = No VAT or duty included up front, usually sold at airports or special stores. Tax Refund = You pay full price with VAT, then claim back a portion later. You can take advantage of both systems during your trip!