By Ggot-song Kim, a Seoul-based K-lifestyle curator. As a local, she loves exploring the city’s hidden gems and sharing her favorite spots, foods, and shopping tips with a global audience.
This is the ultimate Korean souvenir guide for your next trip to Seoul.
You’ve had an amazing trip to Seoul, and now comes the big question: what souvenirs should you bring back? Forget the generic magnets. As a Seoul local, I’m here to be your personal shopper. This is the ultimate insider’s guide to the best Korean souvenirs that everyone will actually love.
A Local’s Korean Souvenir Guide: Top 9 Picks
1. For the K-Pop Stan: Official Merch & Albums
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I remember trying to buy a BTS lightstick in the Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center, but it was sold out. Instead, I bought a mini-album, which was even better because it came with a photocard! K-Pop stores in Hongdae often get limited edition goods from groups like Seventeen or Stray Kids, so follow their Instagram accounts for restock news!”
- Where to Buy: Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center, K-Pop stores in Hongdae, KWANGYA Store (for SM artists).
2. For the Lover of Cuteness: Kakao & Line Friends Goods
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I bought a Ryan doll at the Gangnam Kakao Friends store, and my friends loved it so much I bought several more as gifts. If you want something practical, I recommend the wireless chargers or mini humidifiers. The Line Friends store in Hongdae is popular with collectors for its limited-edition Cony dolls!”
- Where to Buy: Kakao Friends flagship store (Gangnam), Line Friends flagship store (Hongdae).
3. For the Foodie: Unique Korean Snacks
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I gave my foreign friends Turtle Chips, and they fell in love with the crispy texture and bought a whole box. Pepero is great because it comes in various flavors like cheese or hot chicken. For a traditional option, I recommend Yakgwa (honey cookies). You can find them all at a large supermarket like Lotte Mart or E-mart.”
- Where to Buy: Lotte Mart (Seoul Station), E-mart (Hongdae).
4. For the Beauty Guru: Cult K-Beauty Items
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I once bought the KAHI Multi Balm at 50% off during a sale at Olive Young. During sales, they often release limited-edition cushion foundations or special sets, so it’s a good idea to download their app and get coupons in advance. At Chicor, you can find limited editions from brands like Huxley or Dr.G, which are perfect for gifts!”
- Where to Buy: Olive Young (Myeongdong), Chicor (Gangnam).
5. For the Traditional Art Lover: Handmade Crafts
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I bought a handmade celadon cup in Insadong and fell in love with its elegant blue-green color. If you want something practical, I recommend a ceramic dish set. At the Bukchon Hanok Village, you can buy crafts made directly by artisans, which makes them extra special.”
- Where to Buy: Insadong’s traditional craft street, Artisan shops in Bukchon Hanok Village.
6. For the Hanbok Enthusiast: Hanbok Accessories
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I bought a mini Hanbok keychain near Gyeongbok Palace, and my friends loved it so much they placed a group order! Earrings with traditional patterns or norigae brooches are also beautiful, and a phone case with a Hanbok pattern is both practical and beautiful.”
- Where to Buy: Souvenir shops near Gyeongbok Palace, Craft shops in Hongdae.
7. For the Foodie Part 2: K-Food Essentials
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I gifted my friends Buldak Spicy Noodles, and they posted a ‘spicy noodle challenge’ on social media! Instant Tteokbokki kits or Citron Tea (Yuja-cha) are also great items that let you easily enjoy the taste of Korea at home.”
- Where to Buy: E-mart, any convenience store (CU, GS25).
8. For the Stationery Lover: Unique Korean Designs
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I bought a notebook with a traditional pattern at a design shop in Hongdae, and I love that I can feel the Korean atmosphere whenever I study. I also recommend the Kakao Friends sticker sets or traditional Hanji notebooks.”
- Where to Buy: Design stationery shops in Hongdae, Kakao Friends stores.
9. For the Perfume Aficionado: K-Scents
- Ggot-song’s Pro-Tip: “I tried perfumes from brands like Aromatica and Nonfiction, and I especially loved the scents inspired by the forest. The brand Tea Society, which recreates traditional tea scents, is also great. The longevity is good, leaving a subtle fragrance all day.”
- Where to Buy: Olive Young, Department store perfume counters.
Use this Korean souvenir guide and Ggot-song’s experience to enjoy the perfect souvenir hunt in Seoul!
Final Thoughts
From K-Pop merch and K-Beauty to traditional crafts, Hanbok accessories, and unique K-Food, there’s a perfect Korean souvenir for everyone. Use Ggot-song’s experience and shopping tips to enjoy the perfect souvenir hunt in Seoul!