Why Check Out “Olive Young” in Korea?

If you’re into skincare and cosmetics, Korea is the place to be! Korean beauty products are all the rage worldwide, and it’s no wonder that many visitors grab a few as souvenirs. Lately, “Olive Young Shopping” has become a must-visit attraction for tourists in Korea. This popular drugstore is stocked with top-notch skincare, cosmetics, and body products, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
In this post, I’ll share my favorite picks for what to buy at Olive Young, highlight some great locations in Seoul for international travelers, and give you a few tips on how to get a tax refund. Let’s get started for olive young shopping!
Olive Young Shopping List (TOP 5)
As a local Olive Young fan, I’ve rounded up the top 5 items you absolutely need to pick up. These are must-haves for your shopping list, so keep this guide handy!
[1] d’Alba White Truffle First Spray Serum

The d’Alba White Truffle First Spray Serum is a huge hit in Korea and a top favorite at Olive Young. If your skin tends to get dry, this spray is a game-changer. Just spritz it throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and looking fresh.
It’s especially great in the spring, fall, and winter when your skin might feel a bit lackluster and your photos might not turn out as great as you’d like. Grab a bottle at Olive Young and keep it handy for quick touch-ups. With discounts and coupons, you can get it for around $30–$40, and you might even score a 1+1 deal. It’s perfect olive young shopping for souvenirs or gifts as you head home!
[2] SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad

SKINFOOD, a popular Korean brand, is known for its gentle skincare products. Their motto, “Don’t eat it, give it to your skin,” highlights their commitment to using veggies and fruits in their formulas.
The SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad was a top pick in 2023, earning the top spot both in the market and at Olive Young Shopping’s awards. It’s perfect for kicking off your skincare routine with its hydrating and soothing properties. At around $20, it’s a budget-friendly must-have that’s definitely worth adding to your cart!
[3] ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen

I’ve probably gone through more than 10 bottles of this ROUND LAB sunscreen. It’s so gentle and does a fantastic job blocking UV rays. Whenever Olive Young has a sale, I always grab at least two of these birch juice sunscreens. If you’re shopping at Olive Young, this one’s a must-buy.
The application is amazing—it spreads on like a hydrating cream or lotion. It’s really moisturizing, so your face feels light and fresh, not heavy or clogged like with some other sunscreens. It’s truly a gem. Plus, it’s around $15, so it’s a great deal.
[4] TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Mini Cushion

You’ve probably heard of TIRTIR—they’re getting a lot of buzz worldwide! Their new Mask Fit Red Mini Cushion in darker shades is really making waves, with glowing reviews from beauty creators and YouTubers everywhere. With 30 different shades, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your skin tone.
In Korea, where many people have darker skin tones, this cushion has been highly anticipated, and people are loving it. If you’re shopping at Olive Young, this one should definitely be on your list. And with coupons, you can grab it for under $15!
[5] MEDIHEAL Madecassoside Essential Mask Sheet

If you’ve ever visited Korea, you’ve probably grabbed some MEDIHEAL masks. They’re known for being budget-friendly and Olive Young is a great spot to find them. A set of 20 masks costs about the same as other skincare products, making them a fantastic deal.
I’d suggest trying the Tea Tree masks if you just need a light, soothing option, or the Madecassoside ones if your skin needs extra care, especially if you’re dealing with breakouts from traveling. A pack of 20 usually goes for around $20, so you can easily use them every night and still have some left. Definitely add these to your list!
Top Olive Young Shopping Stores for foreigners
Check Out the Best Olive Young Stores for International Visitors in Seoul! These top spots make it super easy to grab amazing Korean beauty products while you’re exploring the city.
Myeongdong Flagship Store
Myeongdong is a hotspot for shopping and sightseeing. The Olive Young flagship store here is huge and has a fantastic selection of skincare and cosmetics. It’s a favorite among international visitors, so you’ll find a lot of options and can really dig into the latest beauty trends.
Hongdae Store
Hongdae is known for its vibrant, youthful vibe with cool shops and street performers. The Olive Young store here is popular with both locals and tourists. If you’re looking for the newest beauty products and want to soak up the unique Hongdae atmosphere, this is the place to be.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza(DDP) Store
The Olive Young near Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is perfect if you’re exploring the area. It’s close to the iconic DDP and offers a great selection of beauty products. After checking out the futuristic architecture and vibrant market scene, you can easily pop into this Olive Young for some shopping.
Immediate Tax Refund at Olive Young

Hey there! If you’re shopping at Olive Young while traveling in Korea, you can snag an instant tax refund right at the store—no need to deal with it at the airport! Here’s how it works:
- Shop at Olive Young: Just make sure your purchase is over KRW 15,000.
- Check for Tax Refund: Verify your eligibility by scanning your passport at the store.
- Pay the Reduced Price: You’ll pay the amount with VAT already deducted.
A Few Things to Note:
- The VAT is taken off your total bill right at the register.
- Each tax-free form must be under KRW 1,000,000.
- You can get a refund up to KRW 5,000,000 in total per tourist.
Enjoy your shopping and those extra savings at Olive Young! (More Details)
Wrapping Up Your Olive Young Adventure
I hope this guide helps you make the most of your Olive Young shopping spree in Korea! With these top picks, store recommendations, and easy tax refund tips, you’re all set for some fantastic beauty finds and extra savings. Whether you’re on the hunt for Korean skincare must-haves or just want to explore the latest trends, Olive Young is definitely worth a visit. Enjoy your shopping and have a blast exploring Korea!