For American travelers, Korea is a great adventure destination. From rich flavors to vibrant markets and world-famous beauty products, it’s impossible to leave Seoul without shopping for authentic Korean goodies.
So, before you book a taxi for Incheon International Airport, be sure to leave the city with a suitcase full of traditional Korean treasures.
Confused about what to shop? Here is a list of 10 must-have Korean products to grab before you fly home.
1. Korean Snacks
Korean snacks are globally loved for various reasons: they are tasty, delicious, and extremely convenient to pack. The best choices to pick are
- Choco Pie: When discussing comfort snacks, Choco Pie is at the top of the list. It consists of a soft marshmallow sandwiched between two cake layers, all of which are dipped in chocolate.
- Milk Rice Crackers: Healthy, crunchy, and light, these are great for a midnight snack or during movie time.
- Zero Crunch Chocolates: If you want to satisfy your sugar cravings with something healthy, try Zero Crunch chocolates. These low-sugar, crunchy, and healthy new-age Korean choco bars make a perfect snack for your air travel or take back home for your friends.
2. Korean Sweets
The vibrant, colorful, and fun Korean sweets are everyone’s favorite. American travelers can try the following options.
- Fruit Jellies: These chewy, pocket-friendly, and satisfying jellies come in real fruit flavors and are available in a variety of options.
- Yogurt Gummies: These make a great substitute for fruit jellies. These are tangy, low-sugar sweets that people of all ages enjoy.
- Persimmon Chips: If you don’t like jellies or candies, try persimmon chips. These crispy, low-sugar, and healthy sweets make a great alternative to candies.
3. Instant Ramen
When it comes to Korean ramen, there is no shortage in variety. From spicy to creamy, and salty, there are a dozen choices, but these stand out:
- Japchae Ramen: This light and flavorful Ramen is inspired by Korea’s sweet potato glass noodle dish.
- Cheese Bokk-i: As the name suggests, this cheesy ramen is a tasty, flavor-rich, and comforting dish.
- Toowoomba Ramen: Inspired by Korean-Western fusion pasta, this ramen is savory and rich in cheese.
Most of these Ramen come in small packs. All you need to do is just add hot water and enjoy Korean food culture in minutes.
4. Seaweed Snacks
At first, seaweed may not seem tempting to eat, but in Korea, it’s a famous snack. Some options that you can try are
- YANGBAN Seaweed: Salty, roasted, and classic, YANGBAN Seaweed is a must-try snack.
- Bibigo Seaweed Crisps: These crunchy, multi-layered snacks combine seaweed with rice chips.
5. HBAF Almonds
Worldwide famous, HBAF (Honey Butter Almond Friends) almonds are a Korean cult favorite. Once you try them, you will understand what makes them so famous. Whether you like honey or buttery flavors, there’s something for everyone.
Since they come in small packs, you can easily carry them along with you.
6. Seasonal Fruits
If you’re planning a trip to Seoul in April and May, don’t forget to shop for seasonal fruits such as
- Korean Strawberries: These sweet and juicy strawberries come in gift-worthy boxes.
- Shine Muscat Grapes: Don’t miss buying seedless, large, and naturally sweetened shine muscat grapes that taste exactly like candies.
7. K-Beauty Products
Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or a beauty product shopper, Korea caters to all your needs. From sunscreen to moisturizers, sheet masks, face creams, and more, you will find a wide range of skincare, makeup, and beauty products flooding the Korean market. You will find products from both local and international brands.
8. Traditional Korean Teas
Tasty and delightful, Korea’s tea culture is quite vibrant and flavorful. Some options to consider buying are
- Omija Tea: Made from dried Schisandra berries, Omija-cha is a traditional Korean tea.
- Citron (Yuja) Tea: This sweet and syrupy tea is great for fighting colds and sore throats.
- Barley Tea: Whether enjoyed at breakfast or in the evening, this roasted, nutty, and caffeine-free tea is perfect for any time of day.
9. Toys & Stationery
Korea is globally famous for unique toys and stationery items. Here you can buy
- School supplies
- Coloring books
- Cartoon characters
- Learning kits
- Travel pouches, stickers, & mini notebooks
10. Home Meal Kits
Want to take a piece of Korea back with you? Make sure to shop for Home Meal Replacement kits such as ready-to-eat Tteokbokki or Kimchi Pancakes. Buy from well-known brands like CJ, Ottogi, or Pulmuone.
Shop It All Under One Roof: Lotte Mart Zettaplex
Looking for an all-in-one Korea travel shopping store? If yes, Lotte Mart Zettaplex is your go-to spot. Situated at Seoul Station, this supermarket stocks a comprehensive range of Korean snacks, beauty products, toys, electronics, stationery, and more. From face masks to instant ramen, hair dryer, toys, and much more, get everything at Lotte Mart Zettaplex Seoul Station.
It is very easy to reach here.
For KTX Travelers, Follow the Directions
Take Exit 1 of Seoul Station, turn left, walk straight for around 50 meters to the Lotte Outlets building, pass the Five Guys store, and continue walking to the end of the building until you find the entrance to Lotte Mart ZETTAPLEX on your left.
For Subway Travelers, Follow the Directions
Exit the subway at Seoul Station, and take the escalator to the ground floor. You’ll see the ZARA store ahead. Turn right and walk toward the Five Guys store. Pass it and continue walking straight until you see the Lotte Mart ZETTAPLEX entrance on your right.
The best suggestion is to find “Lotte Mart ZETTAPLEX Seoul Station” on Google Maps.
Have a peaceful and enjoyable trip.
