If a size is wrong or an item has a problem after you shop in Korea, start with the purchase record and the store’s policy. Ordinary exchanges and refunds are separate from tourist tax refunds, so keep the receipt, product condition and departure schedule together.
Check the store policy before you pay
Each store may set different conditions for the period, sale items, opened packaging and documents needed for an exchange or refund. Read the receipt and signs before paying, and ask if you are unsure. For food, cosmetics and other hygiene-sensitive items, confirm the rule before opening or using them.
Keep the receipt, payment record and packaging
A paper receipt is useful, but a card approval record, payment-app history or order number can also help. Keep the item unused when possible, with tags, components and packaging. Separate receipts by store and save the store location and hours on your map before leaving Korea.
Explain the problem to the original store first
Briefly describe the defect, wrong colour or size, or missing part, then show the item and receipt. You can say, “Could I exchange or return this item?” or “There seems to be a problem with the product.” Bring the item rather than relying only on a photo, and note the staff member’s instructions and expected timing.
The process can differ by payment method
The method and timing of a refund depend on the store’s system and how you paid. A card payment may require the same card or transaction record; cash and mobile payments may follow another process. Ask for the refund amount and timing, then check the cancellation or refund record on the receipt.
Treat tax refunds as a separate step
A tax-refund voucher or immediate-refund record should be kept separately from the store’s exchange or refund process. If you return an item after receiving a tax refund, ask the store and refund operator how the refund must be cancelled or documented. Eligibility and departure procedures vary by store, refund method and airport, so follow current VisitKorea and on-site instructions.
Make one final check before the airport
Calculate the store’s opening hours and your travel time to the airport. Put the item, original payment method, passport if requested, receipt and tax-refund documents together. If the store cannot resolve a consumer problem, check an official consumer-counselling channel such as Korea’s 1372 service, while considering whether the issue can realistically be handled before departure.
GOOGLE MAPS
Find the store for an exchange or return
Check the store name, opening hours, customer-service desk and travel time from your accommodation and airport.
Google Maps ↗