Korean Shopping Phrases – 6 Essentials for Travelers
Planning to shop in Korea? Learning Korean Shopping Phrases will make your trip easier and more fun. Whether you’re wandering through a bustling traditional market or browsing the latest styles in a sleek department store, shopping is one of the best ways to experience Korean culture. But if you’re not familiar with the language, even simple things—like asking the price or checking payment options—can feel a little tricky.
No worries! This guide has you covered with 6 must-know Korean shopping phrases, complete with pronunciation, translations, and cultural tips. With these in your pocket, you’ll shop with confidence and connect more easily with locals.
Why Learn Korean Shopping Phrases?
Shopping in Korea is diverse and exciting:
- Street markets like Namdaemun or Gwangjang, where you’ll find local foods and bargains.
- Trendy districts like Myeongdong or Hongdae, packed with fashion boutiques and beauty shops.
- Department stores and supermarkets, perfect for picking up gifts and daily essentials.
Each place has its own vibe and style of customer interaction. By learning just a few Korean shopping phrases, you’ll not only make the experience smoother but also enjoy friendlier connections with locals.
Each phrase includes:
- Hangul (Korean script)
- Romanized pronunciation
- English translation
1. Asking the Price
- 이거 얼마예요?
- I-geo eol-ma-ye-yo?
- How much is this?
Many markets don’t display prices. Just point to the item while asking—people will understand right away.
2. Korean Shopping Phrases for Checking for Another Color or Size
In clothing and shoe shops, not all options are on display. Staff can often bring out extra sizes or colors if you ask.
3. Confirming Card Payment
Most stores accept cards, but small stalls or market vendors sometimes prefer cash. Always good to check first.
4. Korean Shopping Phrases for Asking About Discounts
- 할인돼요?
- Hal-in dwae-yo?
- Is there a discount?
Polite bargaining is fine in markets and souvenir shops, especially if you’re buying several items. In department stores, discounts are usually seasonal and clearly marked.
5. Requesting Gift Wrapping
- 포장해 주세요.
- Po-jang hae ju-se-yo.
- Could you wrap this, please?
Perfect if you’re buying souvenirs or food to bring home. Many shops offer free wrapping, and some markets even provide vacuum-sealed packaging for travelers.
6. Korean Shopping Phrases for Asking About Refunds or Exchanges
- 환불(교환) 돼요?
- Hwan-bul (gyo-hwan) dwae-yo?
- Can I get a refund (exchange)?
Department stores and chains usually allow refunds and exchanges, but traditional markets often don’t. Best to confirm before you pay.
Quick Reference: Essential Korean Phrases for Shopping
| Hangul (Korean script) | Romanized pronunciation | English translation |
| 이거 얼마예요? | I-geo eol-ma-ye-yo? | How much is this? |
| 다른 색(사이즈) 있어요? | Da-reun saek (sa-i-jeu) i-sseo-yo? | Do you have this in another color (size)? |
| 카드 돼요? | Ka-deu dwae-yo? | Do you take cards? |
| 할인돼요? | Hal-in dwae-yo? | Is there a discount? |
| 포장해 주세요. | Po-jang hae ju-se-yo. | Could you wrap this, please? |
| 환불(교환) 돼요? | Hwan-bul (gyo-hwan) dwae-yo? | Can I get a refund (exchange)? |
Final Thoughts: Shop Like a Local in Korea
Shopping in Korea is more than just buying things—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in local life. With these simple Korean shopping phrases, you’ll avoid awkward moments, enjoy smoother interactions, and maybe even share a smile with shopkeepers.
A quick “이거 얼마예요?” can spark friendly conversations, and you might discover that bargaining in a market becomes one of your favorite travel memories. Keep these Korean shopping phrases handy, and your Korean shopping adventures will be both fun and unforgettable.
Want to feel more confident getting around Korea?
Check out these helpful phrase guides:
Essential Korean Phrases for Using the Korean Subway
Must-Know Korean Phrases for Taking a Taxi
Essential Korean Phrases for Taking the Bus
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