Top 10 Items to Buy in Seoul
What are the things that all visitors want to buy as souvenirs or presents? From handicrafts full of Seoul’s culture and history to fashion props that can’t be found anywhere else in the world, we have made a list of the top items to buy in order to commemorate your trip to Seoul.
Korean Food
At a time when people the world over are seeking to eat more healthily, Korean food culture is making its global mark. Some of the most popular souvenirs are Korean tteok (rice cakes) or alcohol made from rice, dried natural products that can be eaten conveniently on the go, as well as snacks good for your body. You can spot a wide selection of well-packaged food souvenirs at supermarkets or in the food section of department stores. However, out of all the products available, one of the most popular is “well-being” cookies. These beautifully packaged cookies, good enough to be offered as presents, are made only with the finest, non-harmful ingredients or are entirely organic. They are also easily purchased at any convenience store nearby at affordable prices, making them very popular.
Cosmetics
One frequently-heard remark by international visitors to Seoul is that most Koreans are pretty and have good skin. Nowadays however, these same visitors have also learned the Korean secret to flawless skin: BB Cream. This magical cream takes away blemishes and leaves in their place a clear and lively skin. A Korean cosmetic staple, BB Cream has become so popular worldwide that even luxury brands are using it to benchmark their own products. However, there are other must-buy cosmetics in Seoul. In Myeong-dong, one of Seoul’s leading shopping districts, there are countless cosmetics boutiques all clustered together where shoppers can get personalized skin consultations and test any product before they buy. Because there are so many boutiques competing ferociously for shoppers, prices tend to be quite competitive.
Traditional Handicrafts
Traditional handicrafts from any country usually make excellent travel souvenirs since they represent that region’s history and culture, and are not available for purchase anywhere else. This is the case with the many traditional handicrafts that can be frequently spotted in Insa-dong or Bukchon. Some perennially-popular items include dolls wearing hanbok (traditional Korean dress), mother-of-pearl keychains, and humorous folk facial mask sets. The traditional fan is another popular item because it is beautifully crafted and can serve as a decorative piece in addition to its usefulness in hot weather. It is also a gift of great significance, since the fan is traditionally offered to loved ones and is very environmentally friendly.
Hanbok and Traditional Korean Accessories
Traditional handicrafts from any country usually make excellent travel souvenirs since they represent that region’s history and culture, and are not available for purchase anywhere else. This is the case with the many traditional handicrafts that can be frequently spotted in Insa-dong or Bukchon. Some perennially-popular items include dolls wearing hanbok (traditional Korean dress), mother-of-pearl keychains, and humorous folk facial mask sets. The traditional fan is another popular item because it is beautifully crafted and can serve as a decorative piece in addition to its usefulness in hot weather. It is also a gift of great significance, since the fan is traditionally offered to loved ones and is very environmentally friendly.
