As South Korea‘s capital, Seoul is a must-see destination for many travelers. Dive into our comprehensive guide to shopping in Seoul, covering everything from top purchases to the best malls and shopping streets. What we love about shopping in Seoul is the sheer variety. The city features many shopping malls, vibrant streets, chic boutiques, and bustling markets. Whether you’re after skincare, fashion, gadgets, or gourmet treats, the shopping malls in Seoul have it all. Find options to suit every taste and budget with our ultimate guide to the city’s best shopping destinations.
Top 7 Shopping Malls in Seoul
1. COEX
Have you heard of COEX? This iconic destination, often featured on social media thanks to its stunning Starfield Library, is a must-visit in Seoul. The library is a marvel, housing an impressive collection of around 50,000 books, making it one of the most photographed libraries in the world. However, COEX is far more than just a library. Asia’s largest underground shopping mall boasts over 200 stores and 300 brands, offering everything from retail and tech to dining and entertainment, making it a comprehensive shopping experience.
COEX is a fantastic destination for a day out with friends and family. The mall is designed to appeal to people of all ages and interests. Kids can delight in the interactive exhibits at Bricklive, an engaging and educational experience that keeps them entertained. Meanwhile, parents and other adults can explore the diverse shopping options, from high-end fashion and electronics to unique local products. The variety and quality of stores ensure everyone can find something they like, making COEX a perfect spot for family outings or a day with friends.
After a full day of shopping and exploring, COEX’s prime location near the Gangnam district offers even more enjoyable opportunities. Gangnam is famous for its vibrant dining scene, with many restaurants and cafes. Gangnam has it all, whether you’re in the mood for traditional Korean cuisine or international flavors. The combination of COEX’s extensive shopping and entertainment options with the lively atmosphere of Gangnam ensures a memorable experience that showcases the best of what Seoul has to offer.
2. Lotte Mart
Lotte Mart is undoubtedly one of South Korea’s premier shopping destinations. With numerous locations throughout the country, it is a convenient stop for locals and tourists. Known for its vast selection of products, Lotte Mart caters to various needs, offering everything from groceries and clothing to toys, entertainment, and gadgets. The extensive range of goods ensures shoppers can find whatever they want under one roof, making it a one-stop shop for all their needs.
One of Lotte Mart’s key attractions is the enticing discounts, special schemes, and various offers that it regularly provides. These promotions make it difficult for shoppers to leave empty-handed, as the deals are too good to resist. Combining high-quality products at competitive prices makes Lotte Mart a favorite among budget-conscious shoppers who want to maintain quality. This approach has helped Lotte Mart build a loyal customer base that appreciates its variety and value.
In the bustling district of Myeongdong, shoppers can explore three interconnected Lotte malls, including the flagship department store. These malls are seamlessly linked via walkways, creating a comprehensive shopping experience that allows visitors to easily navigate between different sections and explore diverse products. The vibrant atmosphere and the convenience of having multiple stores connected make shopping at Lotte Mart an enjoyable and efficient experience. Whether stocking up on daily essentials or indulging in some retail therapy, Lotte Mart provides a dynamic and satisfying shopping environment that caters to all tastes and preferences.
3. Shinsegae
Shinsegae is one of South Korea’s largest and most influential department stores, boasting numerous branches nationwide. Renowned as a pioneer in the retail sector, Shinsegae was instrumental in introducing the concept of “shopping centers” to South Korea, revolutionizing the retail landscape with its innovative approach. The flagship store, located in the bustling district of Myeongdong, offers an exceptional shopping experience alongside another prominent destination, Lotte Mart.
Inside Shinsegae, you’ll find a remarkable array of global high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Prada, making it a premier destination for high-end fashion enthusiasts. The store’s dedication to quality and exclusivity ensures shoppers can access some of the most coveted global labels in a single location. This focus on luxury is complemented by a beautifully curated selection of products that cater to a discerning clientele.
In addition to its fashion offerings, the Myeongdong branch of Shinsegae features an extraordinary food hall in the basement, a highlight for food lovers. This gourmet space offers diverse culinary delights, from fine dining options to artisanal food products. Whether seeking the latest high-fashion trends or indulging in a culinary adventure, Shinsegae provides a comprehensive and satisfying shopping experience that caters to style and taste.
4. Common Ground
Common Ground is a standout destination if you’re looking for a refreshing change from traditional shopping malls. Located on the outskirts of Seoul, this dynamic spot is known for its vibrant, hipster atmosphere that sets it apart from more conventional retail spaces. Common Ground’s innovative design makes it unique. It is constructed entirely from shipping container units, making it the largest globally. This cutting-edge approach to mall design offers a visually striking and modern shopping environment.
Inside Common Ground, shoppers can explore a variety of popular sports brands, including Nike and Under Armour, making it an excellent spot for athletic gear and trendy apparel. The mall provides an extensive range of dining choices to suit all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a fast meal from one of the popular food trucks parked outside or prefer to enjoy a meal at one of the indoor dining establishments, Common Ground caters to diverse culinary tastes.
Common Ground’s unique design and youthful energy create a lively and engaging shopping experience along with its shopping and dining choices. The creative use of shipping containers and the blend of fashion, food, and fun make it a must-visit destination for those seeking something different from the ordinary mall experience. Whether shopping for the latest trends or enjoying the atmosphere, Common Ground offers a distinctive and memorable outing.
5. Times Square Mall
Times Square Mall is a standout among Seoul’s shopping destinations, renowned for its impressive size and status as one of the largest shopping centers in the city. It features the most enormous shopping atrium in Asia, a vast and brightly lit space that provides a comfortable and expansive shopping experience. The mall features various local and international retail shops, offering multiple items, including fashion, electronics, and home essentials. In addition to the extensive retail options, Times Square Mall also provides a comprehensive range of dining choices to cater to all tastes, ensuring that shoppers can enjoy a variety of culinary delights during their visit.
Beyond its shopping and dining options, Times Square Mall is a hub for entertainment. It is home to CGV Starium, which features the world’s largest cinema screen. With over 2,000 seats and 12 screens spread across five floors, CGV Starium offers an unparalleled movie-watching experience. This addition makes Times Square Mall a prime destination for movie enthusiasts looking for a truly immersive experience.
In addition to the cinema, Times Square Mall provides various other recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy bowling, try their hand at archery, or explore the indoor animal theme park. These attractions make Times Square Mall more than just a shopping destination; they provide a comprehensive entertainment experience for the whole family, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
6. Olive Yang
Although Olive Young isn’t a traditional shopping mall, it deserves recognition for its multi-story stores that offer a mall-like shopping experience. This popular destination is a haven for beauty and skincare enthusiasts, particularly those interested in K-beauty. Olive Young is well-known for its wide range of skincare products, cosmetics, beauty tools, and dietary supplements, which provide a comprehensive range of items that cater to all your beauty needs.
Its competitive prices, frequent discounts, sales, and special offers enhance the store’s appeal. These promotions make Olive Young a go-to spot for shoppers seeking high-quality products and great deals. Whether hunting for the latest beauty innovations or classic staples, Olive Young ensures you can find everything you need in one convenient location.
In addition to its impressive product range, Olive Young’s modern and organized store layout enhances the shopping experience, making browsing through their diverse offerings easy. With its focus on affordability and variety, Olive Young is a top choice for anyone looking to indulge in beauty products while staying within budget.
7. Underground Shopping Malls
South Korea’s underground shopping malls are one of the country’s best-kept secrets, offering a unique and often overlooked shopping experience. Although they may have a different high profile than larger shopping centers, these subterranean hubs provide an extensive range of affordable products and diverse selections. They appeal to those seeking budget-friendly finds and a more localized shopping experience.
Some of the standout underground shopping malls in Seoul include those in Myeongdong, Namdaemun, Yeongdeungpo, and Goto Mall. Each of these locations features a variety of stores offering a variety of items, including clothing, accessories, posters, CDs, electronics, and delicious food. The variety ensures that there’s something for every shopper, whether you’re looking for trendy apparel or unique souvenirs.
Their direct connection to subway stations makes these underground malls even more convenient, making travel and exploration effortless. This connectivity enhances the shopping experience and makes it easy for visitors to navigate between different malls and discover these hidden retail treasures. Whether on a budget or just looking for something special, Seoul’s underground shopping malls are well worth a visit.
Explore Seoul’s Shopping Scene for Diverse Experiences
Seoul’s shopping scene is a must-explore, offering diverse experiences for every taste and budget. There’s something for everyone, from the expansive COEX Mall with its famous Starfield Library to the creative Common Ground made from shipping containers. Enjoy luxury brands at Shinsegae, great deals at Lotte Mart, or K-beauty essentials at Olive Young. Take advantage of the city’s underground malls for unique and affordable finds. Seoul’s vibrant retail landscape ensures a memorable shopping adventure for all.
