In Korea, every tourist looks for something special. Moreover, preferences are largely determined by national mentality. Japanese tourists are interested in Korean spices, dried seaweed, and other delicacies. Europeans prefer to buy quality textiles, ceramics, porcelain, natural wood products, and other handicrafts in Korea. Russians try to purchase a Samsung mobile phone and other high-tech products.
On the streets of Seoul and throughout the country, there are many department stores, supermarkets, and arcades. But most tourists make purchases at local markets, where you can haggle and reduce the price by at least 5-10 percent. Of particular tourist interest is the Namdaemun Market. It is located in the center of the Korean capital, with activity in the rows from six in the morning – from the moment the market opens. Here you can buy almost everything.
The second most popular is the universal market Tongdaemun. Its territory sells the cheapest goods – from clothing to African masks. The rows are open every day except Sunday. But inexperienced foreigners may find it difficult to navigate the wide range of goods: you can search for the right item for hours.
Lovers of antique items must visit the Insa-dong district, where a large number of antique shops are concentrated. However, the cost of goods is quite high. This is explained by the fact that the shop windows display truly unique antique items.
Anyone can find a wealth of the latest high-tech products at the specialized Yongsan market. You can get to the suburb by train. The trip is justified because at the rows you can buy quality digital and home appliances of local and foreign production. For example, for a Nokia mobile phone you would pay half its market price.
In Korea, you can also buy goods wholesale. This service is offered by specialized markets and numerous small shops that operate everywhere.
Prices for the same product may vary from store to store. Therefore, experienced tourists recommend first familiarizing yourself with the assortment of the retail chain, compare prices with competitors, and then make a purchase. To avoid getting lost in the Korean labyrinth, you should write down the numbers of stores with products you like. After all, in Korea, each retail outlet has an individual number.
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