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How to Get a Tax Refund in Korea: A Complete Guide for Travelers

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Don’t miss out on VAT refunds before leaving Korea

Korea is a popular destination for shopping — from cosmetics and fashion to electronics and souvenirs. The good news? If you’re a foreign tourist, you can get a tax refund (VAT) on your purchases!

Here’s how the system works and what to know — even if you’re not flying out of Incheon.

1. Who Is Eligible?

You can receive a VAT refund if you meet the following conditions:

  • You are a non-Korean resident (foreign passport holder)
  • You are staying in Korea for less than 6 months
  • You purchased eligible items worth over 30,000 KRW (including VAT)
  • You take the items out of Korea within 3 months of purchase

2. Two Ways to Get a Refund

Option A: Immediate Tax-Free at Checkout

Many stores (especially in shopping areas like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, Gangnam, and duty-free shops) offer instant tax-free at the register.

  • Look for “Tax Free” logos (Global Blue, EasyTax Free, Cube Refund)
  • Show your passport when paying
  • The tax will be automatically deducted — no refund process needed later

✔ Limits: You can only use this method if your single transaction is under 500,000 KRW

Option B: Claim Tax Refund at the Airport (or Port)

If you didn’t get an instant tax-free discount, you can claim a VAT refund at departure.

Steps:

  1. Shop at eligible stores
    • Ask for a tax refund receipt
    • Keep the items unused and easily accessible
  2. At the airport (or ferry terminal):
    • Go to a self-service kiosk or refund counter before check-in
    • Present:
      • Your passport
      • Your receipts
      • The actual goods
    • Get your refund in cash or card credit

Refund kiosks are available at:

  • Incheon, Gimpo, Gimhae, Jeju airports
  • Busan ferry terminal and major seaports

3. What If I’m Not Flying Out of Incheon?

No worries — you can still receive your VAT refund at other locations like:

  • Gimhae Airport (Busan)
  • Jeju International Airport
  • Muan, Cheongju, Yangyang, and Daegu Airports

These airports have refund counters or kiosks. The process is similar — just arrive early, as smaller airports may not be 24/7.

4. Important Tips

  • Don’t pack refund items in checked luggage
    → You may need to show them before check-in
  • Check your receipt for refund eligibility
    → “Tax refund” or “Global Blue” label should be visible
  • Refund limits
    → Total refund per trip is limited to 2 million KRW
  • Lost receipt = no refund
  • Card refunds may take a few weeks to appear

Korea’s VAT refund system is convenient, but understanding when and where to claim it is key — especially if you’re not departing from Incheon. Plan ahead, keep your receipts safe, and arrive at the airport early enough to process your refund smoothly.

Happy shopping — and enjoy a little bonus cash back on your way out!

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