Best Budget Shopping Spots in Seoul

With a plethora of shopping districts that cater to every taste and budget, the capital of South Korea is undeniably Asia’s fashion capital. Our guide, compiled from a wealth of insider tips from locals and travelers, promises to be your ultimate companion in Seoul. This guide has everything from Hallyu-inspired fashion finds that won’t cost you an arm and a leg to unique antique pieces that embody the spirit of Seoul.

Before you embark on your retail therapy journey, there are three essential checklists to tick off. Ensuring you’re fully prepared will enhance your shopping experience, making it fruitful and enjoyable. And for those eager to start, we’ve curated a list of 10 budget shopping paradises that will satisfy your shopaholic soul. So, lace up your shoes, and let’s dive into the heart of Seoul’s shopping districts, where fashion and affordability meet!

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Hongdae Shopping Area (Hongik Shopping Street)

• Famous for clothing, cosmetics, and skincare
• Address: 365-8 서교동 Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: from 10 am–11 pm every day, all day on Sunday
• How to get there (By subway): Just a minute’s walk from Hongik University Station (line 2, exit 9) will bring you to Eoulmadang-ro.
• Nearby Attractions: N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Adventure, Myeong-dong, Gyeongbokgung Palace

Popularly referred to as the urban nirvana of Seoul’s young and artistic minds, Hongdae is a thriving center that reflects the innovative and avant-garde attitude of the world-renowned art programs at Hongik University. In addition to its extensive selection of trendy clothing and unique trinkets, Hongdae stands out as a top location for affordable shopping because of the unique cultural immersion it provides. This neighborhood is a goldmine for bargain hunters, whether searching the “discounted rack” signage for items under 10,000 KRW (~ 7.44 USD) or perusing local labels such as M Playground and AA for one-of-a-kind Korean men’s apparel.

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Furthermore, the sidewalks of Hongdae are packed with boutiques that cater to interests beyond fashion. For example, Art Box offers diverse stationery and home décor items. Olive Young and Etude House are great places for skincare enthusiasts to learn K-beauty basics. Every nook of Hongdae has a tale to tell, from the spontaneous street performances by aspiring K-pop stars to the creative charm of the mural street and one-of-a-kind café experiences like Thanks Nature Café, where you can relax with fuzzy sheep. With its neon lights and the enticing smell of street food, Hongdae becomes even more of a must-visit spot on any Seoul itinerary after the sun goes down, elevating the shopping experience to a whole new level.

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Dongdaemun Shopping Street

• Famous for: Various products are available, ranging from textiles and garments, footwear and fashion accessories to electronic devices, leather items, sports equipment, stationery, pet supplies, and children’s toys.
• Address: Euljiro 6 (yuk)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: 24/7
• How to get there (By subway): Take the Seoul Subway (Line 1 or 4). A mere short walk from Exit 6 or 7 of Dongdaemun Station will lead you right into the heart of the action.
• Nearby Attractions: Cheonggyecheon, Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun), Heunginjimun Park, Gwangjang Market, Gyeongbokgung Palace

The breathtaking maze of retail wonder that is Dongdaemun is at the center of Seoul’s shopping frenzy. Those who thrive on the excitement of a great sale will find paradise in this shopping zone, which boasts 26 malls, 30,000 specialty stores, and an astounding 50,000 manufacturers. Dongdaemun is a veritable treasure mine of clothing, shoes, accessories, electronics, and more—at rates that won’t break the bank—for anyone looking for the newest trends or a place to find unusual things to shop.

Doota Mall, a seven-story architectural marvel with hundreds of retailers, is one of the must-visit retail havens inside this teeming market. The newest styles are brought to life here, and foreign customers can use an on-site tax refund service for even more significant savings. The Doosan Tower Building is home to Hyundai Department Store Duty-Free, another posh shopping destination. You can find duty-free mid-to-high-end apparel, fashionable Korean fashion labels, and highly sought-after Korean cosmetics here. Retail meccas like apM Place cater to bargain hunters by providing a wide selection of high-quality women’s apparel and accessories in an elegant atmosphere, ideal for making large purchases without sacrificing aesthetics.

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Best things to do in Dongdaemun:

• Dongdaemun Fashion Street & DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) 동대문디자인플라자
• Best Korean Fashion Wholesale Market Online – Dongdaemun

Myeongdong Shopping Street

• Famous for: Beauty & skincare stores and fashion boutiques
• Address: Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: 11:00 am to at least 10 pm
• How to get there (By subway): You should take the subway to either Euljiro 1-ga Station (Exits 5–7) or Myeongdong Station (Exits 5–8) to reach Myeongdong Shopping Street.
• Nearby Attractions: N Seoul Tower, Myeongdong Cathedral, Lotte Department Store, Namdaemun Market, Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, National Folk Museum of Korea and Insadong.

As you meander through the vibrant alleys of Myeongdong, one of the best budget shopping spots in Seoul, get ready to be bombarded by many beauty businesses selling state-of-the-art skincare products and the most recent breakthroughs in makeup. Worldwide customers come here with lists prepared to load up on popular Korean products like Holika Holika, Tony Moly, and Innisfree because the costs are much lower than everywhere else. In addition to its renowned cosmetic items, Myeongdong is also known for its mouth-watering local street cuisine, making it the ideal destination for shopping and dining.

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If you shop at stores with the tax-free emblem, you can get a tax return slip and save a lot of money with just 30,000 KRW (~ 22.31 USD). Not only does this make your shopping trip more budget-friendly, but it also makes your journey through the crowded streets much more enjoyable, culminating in your arrival at Incheon airport to get your tax refund. So, you’re a fashionista looking for the newest trends or a beauty enthusiast wanting to learn more about Korean skincare. In that case, Myeongdong is the place for you!

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Namdaemun Market

• Famous for: Wide range of goods at competitive prices
• Address: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: 7 am to 5 pm (Retail stores); 11 pm to 3 am (Wholesale)
• How to get there (By subway): Hop on Line 4 and disembark at Hoehyeon Station (be sure to look for signs mentioning Namdaemun Market). Follow the signs or ask for Exit 5. Once you’re out of the station, a short 2-minute walk will have you right at the doorstep of this sprawling marketplace.
• Nearby Attractions: N Seoul Tower, Myeongdong, Deoksugung Palace, Seoul History Museum, Insadong

Let’s immerse ourselves in an infinite expanse of more than 10,000 booths, each selling various goods ranging from the functional to the fantastical. Namdaemun, one of the best budget shopping spots in Seoul, offers an incredible array of goods; whether you’re looking for trendy accessories, one-of-a-kind jewelry, practical home necessities, or delightful toys, you’ll find it all here and more.

Namdaemun Market is a paradise for anyone who wants to get the most bang for their buck, and it is famous for its enormous size and variety. Here, haggling is par for the course, and astute buyers know that if they can master the art of negotiating, they will almost certainly walk away with fantastic prices. Thanks to its exciting negotiation dance and extensive selection, Namdaemun is the place to go in Seoul if you’re looking for the best bargain shopping.

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• Ultimate Guide to Namdaemun Market
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• Namdaemun Market Seoul & Seoullo 7017, The Seoul Skygarden

Insadong Shopping Street

• Famous for: Traditional Korean art, antiques, handicrafts and tea houses
• Address: 62, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: The shops in Insadong generally open around 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, but hours can vary by individual stores.
• How to get there (by subway): Take Line 3 to Anguk Station and exit through Exit 6. Alternatively, take Line 1 or 3 to Jonggak Station and exit through Exit 3.
• Nearby attractions include Jogyesa Temple, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Insadong is a retail therapy haven for history buffs and anyone seeking to learn about Korea’s illustrious past. From pricey souvenirs like metal chopsticks and eccentric masks to delicate antique fans and fine traditional Korean crafts, you’ll find it all here. Numerous stores lining the street sell wares that pay homage to Korea’s rich creative history. With its wide variety of boutiques, Insadong offers something for everyone, whether looking for delicate pottery, elegant hanboks, or handcrafted jewelry.

However, Insadong offers a cultural experience beyond mere retail therapy. The sights and sounds of traditional Korea, such as street performers playing traditional music and the enticing fragrances of tea establishments, will meet you as you meander through its lanes. Shopping at famous places like Ssamziegil Shopping Complex, which offers one-of-a-kind handmade goods and artwork, adds a contemporary spin to the classic retail experience. Everything you encounter in Insadong is a piece of Korea’s creative past, thanks to the area’s abundance of art galleries and antique merchants.

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Gwangjang Market

• Famous for authentic Korean street food, vintage clothing, and fabric shopping.
• Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: General stores operate from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., restaurants from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and clothing stores from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m. the following day.
• How to get there (By subway): The market is accessible via subway by alighting at Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1, Exit 7 or 8), which is just a 3-minute walk away, or Euljiro 4-ga Station (Line 2 or 5, Exit 4) which is a 5-minute walk.
• Nearby Attractions: Cheonggyecheon Stream, Jongmyo Shrine, and Insadong Street

Attentive shoppers will find a pulsating window into Korea’s cultural and culinary diversity at Gwangjang Vintage Market, conveniently located in the middle of Seoul. Street Food, a Netflix series, highlights this market for its famous food scene. Still, it also serves as a goldmine for thrifty shopping and newlyweds seeking home décor. Gwangjang Market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters and a culinary paradise for Kimchi dumplings and Soy Sauce crabs. The market offers a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, such as the Mayak Kimbap and Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes), just waiting to be discovered!

In addition to its retail therapy, Gwangjang Market, one of the best budget shopping spots, is a must-visit for sweet tooths interested in South Korea’s delectable cuisine. Additionally, luxury silk can be found in bustling lanes, ideal for wedding gifts, traditional hanboks, and various bedding alternatives. Couples planning a wedding and establishing their comfortable nests often visit the market’s second level, famous for its extensive linen, satin, and silk bedding range.

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Best things to do in Gwangjang Market:

• Gwangjang Market Guide (광장시장): A Foodie’s Paradise
• Gwangjang Market: Best Korean Street Foods

Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Mall (Goto Mall)

• Famous for: Extensive selection of trendy and affordable fashion
• Address: 194 Sinbanpo-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM, all year round
• How to get there (by subway): Via the Express Bus Terminal Station served by subway lines 3, 7, and 9. Exits 8-1 and 8-2 lead directly into the heart of this shopping spot.
• Nearby Attractions: Shinsegae Department Store Gangnam and Banpo Hangang Park

More than just a place to buy, Goto Mall is a thriving ecology full of interesting people, exciting things to buy, and delicious food. Strolling along its little streets, you’ll come across many stores selling trendy clothing, accessories, and home goods, with prices ranging from an incredible 10,000 Won (~7.44 USD) for stylish tops and dresses to fashionable fall coats and seasonal apparel. The mall’s design, with its two primary aisles, makes it practically hard to leave without purchasing something since it encourages a methodical examination of its contents.

The allure of Goto Mall, as one of the best budget shopping spots, extends beyond just clothing. Numerous businesses provide fashionable bags, clutches, earrings, and scarves at costs that won’t break the bank, leaving accessory enthusiasts spoiled for choices. In addition, the mall’s seasonal rotations guarantee you’re always in step with the newest fashions, whether breezy fall coats or warm winter apparel as the temperature drops. Goto Mall is a one-stop shop for everyone looking for one-of-a-kind decorations for their homes or presents. The mall offers a wide variety of home decor items that capture the essence of Korean design—from exquisite tableware to cozy bedding and artistic paintings—that are classy and practical.

Itaewon Shopping Area

• Famous for: A mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options
• Address: Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: While individual shop and restaurant hours may vary, most shops in Itaewon are open from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm. The area’s nightlife spots, including bars and clubs, often stay open until early, especially on weekends.
• How to get there (By subway): Itaewon is easily accessible via Seoul Subway Line 6. The main Itaewon Station (Exit 1 or 2) brings you directly into the heart of the district. Alternatively, you can use Noksapyeong Station (Exit 2) or Hangangjin Station (Exit 1) on Line 6, just a short walk from Itaewon’s main attractions.
• Nearby Attractions: N Seoul Tower, War Memorial of Korea, Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, Hannam-dong

A unique and intriguing destination for budget-conscious shopping and culinary fans is Itaewon, a dynamic district in Seoul, South Korea, a melting pot of nationalities. Itaewon has over a hundred specialty shops providing various goods, from well-known international fashion labels to one-of-a-kind garments. If you’re searching for fashionable leather items, chic handbags, unique souvenirs, or antiques, then Itaewon’s retail streets provide various products at affordable prices, unlike high-end shopping districts.

Situated in Itaewon-dong, this retail therapy haven also serves as a culinary mecca. An enormous culinary scene opens behind the Hamilton Hotel Seoul, with pubs, clubs, and restaurants serving cuisines worldwide, including Greece, Pakistan, Italy, India, and Thailand, among many others. Visitors seeking a dynamic blend of commerce, culture, and cuisine will find Itaewon an all-encompassing destination, thanks to its unique food selections and active nightlife that add layers to the shopping experience.

Best things to do in Itaewon:

• Best 15 Restaurants & Bars in Itaewon Seoul 
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• Things to Do in Itaewon

Garosu-gil

• Famous for boutiques, chic cafes, and art galleries.
• Address: Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: Most shops and cafes in Garosu-gil open from 10:00 am to close around 10:00 pm.
• How to get there (by subway): Take Line 3 to Sinsa Station. From there, take Exit 8 and walk straight for about 5 minutes until you see the entrance to Garosu-gil on your left.
• Nearby Attractions: Cheongdam-dong area and the Han River Park

One of the most appealing aspects of Garosu-gil is the wide variety of stores that it has to offer. These shops sell everything from high-end clothes to one-of-a-kind beauty products. The street is a refuge for people interested in going overboard with their spending since it features a variety of premium brands and hidden jewels where clever shoppers can find treasures within their price range. As the sun sinks below the horizon and your shopping bags become heavier, the area transforms, revealing quaint cafes and gourmet eateries ideal for unwinding and appreciating the day’s bounty.

Garosu-gil can combine the appeal of upmarket shopping with the accessibility of options that are friendly to one’s wallet, which truly sets it apart from other shopping destinations. This street will provide a customized shopping experience that does not require a costly budget, and it does so regardless of whether you are looking for the most recent fashion trends, beautiful beauty items, or one-of-a-kind souvenirs. You can only look further than the lovely streets of Garosu-gil if you are looking for a shopping destination in Seoul where you can find fashionable and affordable products.

Samcheong-dong

• Famous for: Stylish K-fashion items, eclectic art galleries, and cozy cafés
• Address: Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: Most shops and cafés in Samcheong-dong open at 10:00 a.m. and close at 10:00 p.m. However, hours may vary.
• How to get there (By subway): To reach Samcheong-dong, take the Seoul Subway to Anguk Station (Line 3) and use Exit 1. From there, it’s a short walk north towards Bukchon-ro 5 gil.
• Nearby attractions include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insadong, and Bukchon Hanok Village.

Located in the middle of Seoul’s old town, Samcheong-dong is a peaceful neighborhood famous for its fusion of traditional Korean and modern cultures. Compared to the busy retail districts of Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, this charming neighborhood’s winding alleyways adorned with traditional hanok houses provide a one-of-a-kind shopping experience as one of the best budget shopping spots. With its lovely shops and specialty businesses offering a curated range of K-fashion goods, Samcheong-dong stands apart from huge malls. It’s a favorite spot for Seoulites seeking trendy yet reasonable purchases.

Starting with the street Yun Bo-Seong-gil near the Anguk Subway Station, you can easily navigate Samcheong-dong’s retail paradise. As you make your way north, you can’t help but be enticed by the charming fronts of stores and cafes. But the natural charm of Samcheong-dong is in the little alleys that branch off the main road and hide all sorts of little treasures. Adventuresome shoppers will find many boutique businesses here, against the tranquil backdrop of the Jeongdok Public Library’s verdant gardens. Each item showcases Korean designers’ unique style and skill, from trendy clothing to unique accessories.

Ewha Woman University Shopping Street (Edae)

• Famous for: Clothing and Cosmetics
• Address: Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: Mostly from 10 am to 9 pm, and no fixed hours
• How to get there (By subway): 5-minute stroll from either exit 2 or 3 of the Ewha Womans University Station on the Green Line (Line #2)
• Nearby Attractions: Ewha Womans University (Korea’s first women’s college), Yonsei University (Korea’s first medical school), and Hongdae (Hongik University Street).

Edae, the Ewha Woman’s University Shopping Street in Seoul, is a haven for budget-conscious beauties and fashionistas. The eclectic mix of retailers in this lively shopping neighborhood is famous for offering the newest Korean fashion and beauty trends at affordable prices, setting it apart from more expensive shopping regions. There are many stores in Edae, but some stand out and have become hot spots for those seeking trendy things at low prices.

If you want to add K-fashion flair to your wardrobe without breaking the bank, Ewha 52nd Street is a must-visit destination. Its extensive collection of stylish, reasonably priced clothes captures the youthful essence of Edae. Also, off the main street, you’ll find many unique shops and boutiques in the side lanes. In these lesser-known establishments, you can discover one-of-a-kind items and seasonal clothing at far more affordable costs than in the more apparent stores along the main street.

Seoul Folk Flea Market

• Famous for: Artifacts and Crafts
• Address: 21 Cheonho-daero 4-gil, Sinseol-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: from 10:00 AM until 7:00 PM
• How to Get There (By Subway): The nearest subway station is Sinseol-dong Station, served by Seoul Subway Line 1 and 2. After alighting at Sinseol-dong Station, take Exit 6, 9, or 10, and you’ll find yourself just a 5-minute walk from the market. 
• Nearby Attractions: Cheonggyecheon Stream, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Gwangjang Market, Jongmyo Shrine

The Seoul Folk Flea Market, located next to the lively Cheonggyecheon Stream and the busy Sinseol-dong Station, is an excellent example of the traditional Korean marketplace and the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Featuring an unusual mix of commonplace goods, souvenirs, traditional arts and crafts, and delicious traditional cuisine, this famous location is more than simply a market; it’s an adventure into the core of Korean culture. Not only can you find modern things that pulse with the vitality of contemporary Korea among the rare and authentic objects that whisper tales of yore, but you can also immerse yourself in a world where the past and present blend as you meander through the market.

From local specialties that exude the distinct flavors of Korea to traditional Korean crafts that reflect the country’s creative legacy, you’ll find it all here. As one of the best budget shopping spots in Seoul, this market is a veritable treasure mine for anyone seeking something extraordinary. You can find that one-of-a-kind item that has been eluding you elsewhere among the vibrant kiosks and friendly vendors. At the Seoul Folk Flea Market, you may discover authentic traditional artifacts, vintage clothing, rare collectibles, and more for a price that won’t break the bank.

Seocho Saturday Flea Market

• Famous for: Secondhand goods 
• Address: 462-8 Bangbae 2(i)-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening Hours: 9 am to 2.30 pm (Only on Saturday)
• How to get there (By subway): Take the Seoul Subway to Sadang Station and exit through Exit 14, then you will be at the market’s entrance.
• Nearby Attractions: Banpo Hangang Park, National Gugak Center, Samsung D’light, Yangjae Citizens’ Park

As a symbol of Seoul’s vibrant fusion of old and new, the Seocho Saturday Flea Market has been open to the public since 1988. Thousands of vendors and an even more significant number of shoppers gather every Saturday, all year round, at this historic intersection to hunt for the town’s most excellent offers. At these stalls, you can find an almost infinite variety of things, from antique apparel and accessories to books, purses, and an unusual assortment of trinkets, all at nearly too beautiful prices.

The Seocho Saturday Flea Market is famous for its bargain rates on secondhand products, but that’s not all it offers. The shopping experience is enhanced by the addition of street performances and art exhibitions, making it a cultural hub. You can see the ajummas and ajusshis engage in amicable but heated negotiating fights as they try to get the best deal possible. In this market, you may participate in a vibrant, communal dance of culture, connection, and business; it’s not just about shopping. The Seocho Saturday Flea Market is one of the best budget shopping spots for bargains in Seoul. Be sure to include it in your itinerary!

Final thought

We finish exploring the top-budget shopping areas in Seoul as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the colorful metropolis. Shopping in Seoul is a dream come true, whether in the trendy Myeongdong district or the more traditional Samcheong-dong, where you can find one-of-a-kind treasures and old-world charm. Immerse yourself in a shopping experience that blends the old with the new, the expensive with the inexpensive, as you explore each area with its personality and offerings. Seoul has many stores selling anything from high-street clothes to artisan crafts, K-beauty basics, and more. Bring your most comfortable shoes and ensure your suitcase has enough room. The most significant budget shopping sites in Seoul will offer you more than just goods — they will give you memories of a lively culture and a memorable journey.