How the tourist tax refund works
- Who: foreign visitors staying in Korea less than 6 months (and Korean nationals living abroad for 2+ years).
- Where: stores showing a "Tax Free" or "Tax Refund" sign, such as Olive Young, department stores, Daiso and many cosmetics and fashion shops.
- Minimum: ₩15,000 or more on a single receipt.
- Deadline: leave Korea within 3 months of the purchase.
- Bring your passport: the store scans it to issue the refund receipt.
Immediate refund vs airport refund
At participating stores the VAT is taken off the price at the till. Immediate refunds are allowed up to ₩1,000,000 per purchase and ₩5,000,000 per trip. Above that, or at shops without the service, you pay full price and claim the refund at the airport: use a refund kiosk at Incheon, Gimpo, Gimhae or Jeju airport before or after security, depending on whether you need customs to check the goods.
Typical refund amounts
| Purchase | VAT inside | Typical refund |
|---|---|---|
| ₩15,000 | ₩1,364 | ≈ ₩1,000 |
| ₩50,000 | ₩4,545 | ≈ ₩3,000–3,500 |
| ₩100,000 | ₩9,091 | ≈ ₩6,000–7,000 |
| ₩300,000 | ₩27,273 | ≈ ₩18,000–21,000 |
| ₩1,000,000 | ₩90,909 | ≈ ₩60,000–70,000 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine several small receipts to reach ₩15,000?
No. Each receipt must reach ₩15,000 by itself, so buy together in one payment when you can.
Do I get a refund on cosmetic or medical procedures?
No longer. The VAT refund for cosmetic surgery and skin treatments for foreign patients ended on January 1, 2026.
Do I get the refund in cash or on my card?
At airport kiosks you can usually choose cash in won, some foreign currencies, or a card refund. Immediate refunds simply lower the price you pay.
What if I forget to claim at the airport?
Some refund operators accept mail-in claims, but many do not. Claim before you fly to be safe.