From centuries-old craftwork to trendy K-beauty products, shopping in South Korea offers a unique mix of old and new. Whether you're exploring street markets in Seoul or strolling through Jeju’s local stalls, here are the top 10 South Korea souvenirs to look out for.
1. Korean Skincare & Beauty Products
South Korea is the global capital of skincare innovation. K-beauty products are beloved for their high-quality ingredients, sleek packaging and effective formulas. From snail mucin serums to brightening sheet masks, the options are endless — and often more affordable in Korea than overseas. Head to stores like Olive Young or Innisfree or browse the beauty boutiques in Myeongdong for curated skin routines and trendy new launches.
These make excellent gifts, too — many products come in travel-sized gift boxes or seasonal packaging. If you’re trying to decide what to buy in South Korea for a beauty enthusiast, this is the perfect answer.
2. Jeju Tangerine Products
Jeju Island is known for its sweet, seedless tangerines — and everything they inspire. From chocolates and jams to skincare and even liquor, Jeju’s iconic fruit is a regional specialty you’ll see everywhere. Stop by a local market to pick up tangerine-scented lotions or edible treats made with sun-ripened citrus grown in the island’s volcanic soil.
If you're visiting Jeju, these fragrant, zesty items make memorable South Korea souvenirs that are uniquely tied to the destination.
3. Korean Traditional Tea
South Korea’s tea culture is steeped in ceremony and wellness. You’ll find beautifully packaged boxes of green tea (nokcha), roasted barley tea (boricha) or jujube tea (daechucha) in specialty shops and department stores. Many are harvested from organic farms in regions like Boseong, famous for its scenic tea plantations.
Choose a curated tea set, often accompanied by porcelain cups or handcrafted tins, to bring home a calming sip of Korea's traditions.
4. Hanji (Traditional Korean Paper)
Hanji, made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree, is one of Korea’s oldest and most respected art forms. You’ll find this textured, durable paper used in everything, from notebooks and fans to lanterns and bookmarks. Artisans across the country have adapted hanji into modern crafts, combining heritage with contemporary design.
These handmade goods are lightweight, easy to pack and ideal for travelers wondering what to buy in South Korea that supports local craftspeople.
5. Korean Ginseng
Long revered for its health benefits, Korean red ginseng is a top-tier herbal remedy known for boosting energy, immunity and focus. Available in root form, powdered extracts, capsules or even ginseng candy, it's widely sold in pharmacies, herbal shops and duty-free stores.
If you're shopping for wellness gifts or curious about traditional medicine, ginseng is one of the most popular South Korea souvenirs with centuries of cultural significance behind it.
6. Traditional Hanbok-Inspired Accessories
While packing an entire hanbok (Korea’s traditional garment) may be impractical, you can still bring home a piece of its elegance. Hanbok-inspired hairpins (binyeo), pouches (norigae) or embroidered hand mirrors make beautiful gifts that blend history with modern use.
These accessories are often handcrafted and available in various styles, reflecting the bright silks and delicate patterns of ceremonial wear.
7. Korean Street Snacks
When in doubt, bring home a taste of your trip. Korean street snacks like honey butter almonds, spicy rice crackers and roasted seaweed (gim) are easy to find and easy to share. Packaged for travel, these flavorful treats are sold in convenience stores and airport shops alike.
If you're shopping in markets like Gwangjang in Seoul or Seogwipo Olle Market in Jeju, look for sweet rice cakes (tteok), chestnut candies or vacuum-packed kimchi for longer shelf life.
8. K-Pop & K-Drama Merchandise
Korean pop culture has taken the world by storm. From BTS albums to "Squid Games" memorabilia, official merchandise is everywhere in South Korea — especially in shopping areas like Gangnam or Hongdae. Look for branded apparel, posters, photocards or even themed snacks from your favorite idols.
Whether you're a fan yourself or shopping for one, K-pop merch is a fun and youthful answer to what to buy in South Korea.
9. Korean Ceramics
South Korea’s ceramic tradition dates back to the Three Kingdoms period and remains an essential part of its cultural identity. From minimalist porcelain tea cups to vibrant celadon vases, you’ll find stunning pottery in galleries, gift shops and artisan villages like Icheon.
Choose something small and sturdy — like a teacup or incense holder — for a functional souvenir that doubles as a piece of Korean heritage.
10. Calligraphy and Ink Sets
Calligraphy, or seoye, is a revered Korean art form that blends poetry, brushwork and visual elegance. For something meaningful and creative, pick up a calligraphy set with brushes, ink sticks and rice paper or buy pre-made calligraphy scrolls with Korean proverbs or Hangeul characters.
These souvenirs are not only beautiful to display but offer insight into Korea’s literary and artistic past.
Shopping Excursions in South Korea
Several South Korea shore excursions include opportunities for authentic shopping. Here’s one you might enjoy:
- Jeju South Highlight (Seogwipo) – Visit the serene Yakcheonsa Temple and admire the cascading Cheonjiyeon Waterfall before ending your day at Seogwipo Olle Market, where you can shop for local snacks, fresh seafood, handmade crafts and Jeju specialties.
What To Buy in South Korea?
If you're wondering what to buy in South Korea, consider iconic souvenirs like Jeju tangerine chocolates, K-beauty skincare sets, mother-of-pearl inlay crafts and traditional teas. These keepsakes reflect the vibrant culture, craftsmanship and modern trends that make South Korea such a dynamic shopping destination. From market stalls in Jeju to Seoul’s sleek boutiques, there’s no shortage of treasures to bring home.
