As a foreign tourist visiting Korea, you might be wondering what items you should buy that are unique, high-quality, and not available or expensive in your home country. To help you out, we've compiled a list of must-buy items recommended by Koreans living abroad based on their experiences. These items range from traditional Korean products to modern K-pop merchandise, so there's something for everyone.
If you wear glasses and have low eyesight, you know how expensive it can be to find the right pair. However, Korean glasses offer an affordable alternative with a wide range of fashionable designs. You can have your eyesight measured in-store and find glasses that suit your style in less than an hour. So, don't hesitate to upgrade your glasses while visiting Korea.
Korea is surrounded by the sea and has a rich tradition of using dried seafood in its cuisine. You can find a variety of dried seafood like mussels, hijiki, green laver, whitebait pods, dried squid, and gim (김) at local markets and supermarkets. These dried seafood products are great for adding a unique flavor to your cooking or as a healthy snack. In Korea, seaweed is a common side dish served with rice, but it can also be enjoyed as a snack. In fact, dried squid is a popular beer snack that many Koreans enjoy.
Korean beauty products have gained a worldwide reputation for their high quality and effectiveness. They often use innovative ingredients and advanced technology to provide visible results. Plus, they're affordable compared to similar products from other countries. Whether you're looking for skincare, makeup, or haircare products, you'll find a wide range of options in Korea.
Korean instant noodles, or ramyeon, are a beloved staple in Korean households. They come in numerous variations and flavors, and are known for their chewy texture and spicy taste. These noodles are a must-try when in Korea and make for a convenient and tasty snack or meal. Chabaghetti was well known through the movie Parasite, and you can eat Shin Ramyun in the form of cup noodles at the summit of Jungfrau, Switzerland.
Korean tea has a long history and is deeply ingrained in Korean culture. From green tea to herbal teas, Korean tea is known for its health benefits and unique flavor profiles. You can find a variety of high-quality Korean teas, including beautiful packaged ones like Osulloc, at local tea shops and markets. Drinking Korean tea is a great way to relax and enjoy a taste of Korean culture.
Conclusion
There you have it, a list of must-buy items recommended by Koreans living abroad for foreign tourists visiting Korea. From trendy Korean beauty products to traditional dried seafood, there's something for every type of traveler. Remember to check duty-free shops and local markets for the best deals and unique products. Have fun exploring Korea and happy shopping!
"Stay tuned for more insider tips in the upcoming articles! I will be sharing additional must-buy items for foreigners visiting Korea in my series on 'Disclosure of Confidential Information.' "
For Disclosure of Confidential Information (2), click here
