Shopping - Seoul - page 85

NEED TO KNOW
Opening Hours
» Shops 10am-9pm; some closed Sunday
» Department Stores 10am-8pm
» Markets Times vary, but some stalls may stay open even on days when a market is generally closed.
Bargaining
Acceptable at markets and some shops. If you are buying more than one item, it's also OK to ask for a dis-
count - use your judgement.
VAT Refunds
Global Refund ( www.globalrefund.com ) offers a partial refund (between 5% and 7%) of the 10%
value added tax (VAT) on some items. Spend more than ₩30,000 in any participating shop and the retailer
gives you a special receipt. At Incheon International Airport go to a Customs Declaration Desk (near the
check-in counters) before checking in your luggage, as the customs officer will want to see the items before
stamping your receipt. After you go through immigration, show your stamped receipt at the refund desk to re-
ceive your refund.
Food & Drink
The many types of Korean tea are a popular buy. Brands of rice wines such as makgeolli
and Baekseju , and local liquors such as soju are also good souvenirs. Ginseng, the won-
der root, turns up everywhere. You can chew it, eat it, drink it or bathe in it to benefit from
its health-giving properties.
Shopping by Neighbourhood
» Gwanghwamun & Jongno-gu ( CLICK HERE ) Insa-dong and Samcheong-dong
are packed with art galleries and traditional craft and antique shops.
» Myeong-dong & Jung-gu ( CLICK HERE ) Best for department stores, fashion out-
lets and cosmetics. All-night shopping at Namdaemun Market.