Immediate refund
An eligible store deducts the refundable amount at purchase after checking the required identification.
Money and shopping
Korea Tax Refund Guide
Eligible foreign visitors can receive refunds of VAT and certain individual consumption taxes at participating stores, but the process and limits depend on the purchase and refund method.
Three common routes
Downtown refund
You receive a refund through an available city counter or kiosk and may still need departure validation.
Airport refund
You complete required customs or kiosk steps before collecting the refund.
What to keep
- Your passport or accepted identification
- The goods until required inspection is complete
- Original receipts and refund documents
- The payment card if the operator requires it
Avoid outdated assumptions
Purchase thresholds, maximum amounts, eligible stay periods, airport counters and validation steps can change. Use the current official guide shortly before shopping and again before departure.
Official source checked: Korea Tourism Organization’s Comprehensive Tax Refund Guide, updated October 20, 2025. This page intentionally does not hard-code thresholds that may change.
Editorial review: 1 September 2026. Time-sensitive details such as hours, prices, access rules and reservations must be confirmed with the official venue or transport operator before travel.