Tax refunds in Korea, step by step: instant refund or airport?
How visitors get back part of the tax on shopping: who qualifies, the instant refund at the counter, refunds at the airport, and the mistakes that cost people money.
Visitors can get back part of the value-added tax (VAT) on shopping in Korea. There are three ways to claim it. This guide explains each one and what to watch out for.
Who qualifies
- Foreign visitors staying in Korea for less than six months.
- Purchases at stores that display a Tax Free or Tax Refund sign.
- Goods you take out of Korea with you, bought within the allowed period before departure.
- A minimum spend per receipt at the same store. Most recent sources give ₩15,000, but some smaller stores set a higher minimum. Ask before you pay.
Always carry your passport when shopping. You need it at the counter.
Way 1: Instant refund at the store (easiest)
Many large stores, cosmetics chains and department stores deduct the tax at the counter, so you pay the tax-free price straight away.
- Before paying, say “Tax refund, please” and show your passport.
- The staff scan your passport. The refund is taken off your total.
- Keep the receipt.
There are limits on instant refunds, both per purchase and for your whole trip. If you go over them, you claim the rest at the airport. Staff will tell you if you have reached a limit.
Way 2: Refund at a city refund counter or kiosk
Some shopping areas, such as Myeongdong and department stores, have refund counters or kiosks. Bring your passport, the goods (unopened is safest) and your tax refund receipts. Refunds are usually paid in cash or to your card.
Way 3: Refund at the airport
- Arrive early. Refund lines can be long.
- Before check-in, if a customs stamp is needed for high-value goods, go to the customs desk with the goods, receipts and passport. Keep those goods in your hand luggage or show them before you check your bag.
- Use the tax refund kiosks to scan your passport and receipts.
- Collect the refund at the refund counter, or choose a card refund.
Common mistakes
| Mistake | How to avoid it |
|---|---|
| Forgetting your passport when shopping | Carry it, or a clear photo plus the original when you plan to shop. |
| Packing goods in checked luggage before the customs check | Ask whether your items need a customs check, and do it before check-in. |
| Losing the tax refund receipt | Keep all receipts together in one envelope. |
| Several small purchases on separate receipts | Buy together at one counter so the total meets the minimum. |
How much will I get back?
You do not get the full VAT back. Refund operators keep a fee, so the amount depends on the purchase size and the refund method. The receipt usually shows the expected refund.
Official sources
- Korea Customs Service
- National Tax Service
- Incheon International Airport: refund kiosk locations
Prices, timetables and rules in Korea change often. We check this guide regularly, but please confirm details with the official sources linked above before you travel.