K-beauty has become a global phenomenon, with fans around the world looking for the latest skincare innovations from South Korea. If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, there’s no better place to stock up on your favorite products or discover new ones. While most travelers know about Olive Young, there are many other stores and locations worth visiting if you’re serious about your skincare game.
In this post, we’ll explore where to buy Korean beauty products in Seoul, including some lesser-known spots and a guide to finding the largest Olive Young locations for those who want to dive deep into K-beauty heaven.
Why Olive Young Is the First Stop for K-Beauty Lovers
If you’re new to Korean skincare, Olive Young is the perfect introduction. It’s a health and beauty chain store found all over Seoul, offering a curated selection of skincare, makeup, haircare, and even supplements. The stores often run promotions, offer free samples, and include testers for most items, making it easy to try before you buy.
But not all Olive Young stores are created equal. Some are tiny, while others are sprawling beauty wonderlands.
If you’re wondering where to find the biggest and most comprehensive branches, check out our detailed guide on where to find the largest Olive Young stores in Seoul.
Beyond Olive Young: Hidden Gems for K-Beauty Shopping
While Olive Young is convenient, there are other shops that offer exclusive items, deeper discounts, or a more local feel. Here are some of our favorite alternatives:
1. Aritaum, Innisfree, and Etude House Flagships
These brands often release store-exclusive items or gift sets that aren’t available in Olive Young. Flagship locations, especially in shopping districts like Myeongdong or Garosugil, carry full product lines and sometimes have special promotional events.
2. Chicor
Chicor is sometimes referred to as Korea’s version of Sephora. It features both Korean and international brands and offers a more luxury-focused experience. Try the Gangnam or Hongdae locations for the most comprehensive selections.
3. Lalavla and LOHBs
These are Olive Young’s competitors and often carry similar products. However, you might find different pricing or exclusive collaborations here. They’re also great spots to explore lesser-known indie brands.
4. Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center
For those on a budget or looking for bulk deals, this underground shopping area is a goldmine. Many stores carry overstock or discounted goods, and you can often haggle for a better deal if you’re buying in bulk.
Tips for Shopping Korean Beauty in Seoul
Bring your passport: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for foreigners.
Follow local influencers: They often highlight limited-edition items or local pop-ups.
Don’t be afraid to ask for samples: Most stores are happy to include freebies with your purchase.
Check the manufacture date: It’s usually printed on the box, and fresher is better when it comes to skincare.
How to Plan Your Beauty Shopping Route in Seoul
If you’re visiting Seoul for just a few days, it’s smart to group your shopping trips by neighborhood. Here’s a quick example:
Day 1: Myeongdong (flagships + underground shopping)
Day 2: Gangnam (Chicor, Olive Young megastore, department store counters)
Day 3: Hongdae (youthful, indie brands + Lalavla + art markets)
This way, you can explore different styles and vibes while checking off your K-beauty wishlist.
For more travel-friendly tips, including shopping for beauty products late at night, or navigating tax refunds, stay tuned to our Seoul-specific guides updated weekly.
Where to Find K-Beauty Must-Haves Easily
Whether you’re a skincare minimalist or someone who loves a 10-step routine, Seoul is your playground. With the right planning, you can stock up on your favorite products, discover new holy grails, and enjoy the process.
If you’re serious about visiting the most iconic K-beauty locations, don’t forget to read our full post on the biggest Olive Young branches in Seoul—especially helpful if you’re short on time but want maximum exposure to the best the brand has to offer.