How to Get Tax-Free at Olive Young in Seoul (for Foreigners)
⏳ Quick Summary
Hi, If you're a foreigner staying in Korea—whether you're visiting for a week, studying abroad, or spending a few months on a work assignment—you've probably walked past an Olive Young at least once. With its vibrant storefronts and rows of Korean skincare products, Olive Young is more than just a beauty store—it’s a cultural experience.
But here’s what many travelers don’t know: as a foreigner, you can shop here tax-free. That means you can save up to 10% on your favorite K-beauty products, health items, or even snacks—simply by showing your passport.
Foreigners staying in Korea for less than 6 months can receive VAT refunds (approx. 10%) when spending over ₩15,000 at Olive Young. Refunds are processed either instantly at the register or later at the airport, depending on the store.
Can Foreigners Really Get Tax-Free at Olive Young?
Yes, Olive Young is a registered Tax-Free merchant in Korea. In fact, it’s one of the most accessible and tourist-friendly retail chains when it comes to tax refunds.
To be eligible for the tax refund, you must meet the following conditions:
✔️ Eligibility Criteria
- You must be a non-Korean passport holder
- Your stay in Korea must be under 6 months
- You must spend over ₩15,000 (approx. $11 USD) in a single receipt
- You need to show your physical passport at checkout
- The purchased items must remain unused until you leave Korea
Tip: You do not need a visa to be eligible. As long as you're staying temporarily (e.g., under 6 months), you're good to go.
Two Types of Tax-Free Refunds at Olive Young
Depending on which store you visit, Olive Young offers two types of tax refund options. Understanding the difference will help you choose the most convenient method.
1. Instant Refund (Best Option for Tourists)
Some Olive Young stores—especially the ones in tourist-heavy areas like Myeongdong or Gangnam—offer immediate tax refunds at the checkout counter.
Here’s how it works:
- Show your passport at payment
- The VAT (~10%) is automatically deducted from your total
- You pay the reduced price right away
- No need to claim anything later at the airport
This is the most convenient method, especially if you don’t want to deal with refund counters at the airport or are unsure if you’ll have time before your flight.
2. Standard Refund (Processed at the Airport)
If the store doesn't support instant refunds, they’ll issue you a Tax-Free Receipt instead.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Ask for a Tax-Free receipt when paying (you'll still pay the full price at checkout)
- Keep the product unused and in original packaging
- At the airport, go to the Tax Refund Counter (Incheon, Gimpo, Busan, etc.)
- Show your passport, purchased items, and receipts
- Choose to receive your refund in cash or to your credit card
Most airports in Korea have well-marked refund zones—just look for "Tax Refund" signs before immigration.
Where to Shop: Top Tax-Free Olive Young Stores in Seoul
While many Olive Young branches offer Tax-Free benefits, not all stores provide instant refunds. For a smoother experience, we recommend shopping at one of these major branches in Myeongdong, Seoul’s most tourist-friendly district:
| Myeongdong Flagship Store | 53 Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu | Largest Olive Young in Korea, full product range, instant refund available |
| Myeongdong Timewalk Store | 78 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu | Near Ibis Ambassador Hotel, tourist hotspot |
| Myeongdong Central Store | 18 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Jung-gu | Located in central shopping street, staff speaks English/Chinese |
| Myeongdong Station Store | 127 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu | Connected to subway, Exit 8—perfect for quick visits |
| Myeongdong Daero Store | 120 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu | Main street location with great accessibility |
These stores not only offer Tax-Free services, but also tend to stock the latest K-beauty releases, exclusive bundles, and have staff familiar with foreign customers.
Practical Tips for Getting Tax-Free at Olive Young
| Always bring your physical passport | Photocopies or digital versions are not accepted |
| Double-check if instant refund is available | Ask staff before shopping to avoid surprises |
| Make sure each receipt is over ₩15,000 | Multiple small purchases may not qualify |
| Do not use the product before departure | Used/opened items may void your refund eligibility |
| Shop early | Some stores can get crowded during peak tourist hours |
Bonus: Some international credit cards may offer additional cashback or discounts when shopping overseas—check with your bank in advance.
Final Words
Whether you're stocking up on Anua’s Heartleaf Toner, Kahi’s multi balm, or some trendy new Korean sunscreen, shopping at Olive Young is an essential experience for many visiting Korea. The good news? You don’t have to pay full price.
By understanding how the Tax-Free system works, and visiting the right branches, you can shop smarter—and save more.
Stick to Myeongdong if you want English-speaking staff and easy refund service. And most importantly: don’t forget your passport!