The best fashion and gift stores South Korea
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Practical information : Treat yourself (& others) South Korea
Timetable
Shops are open all week, generally between 9-10am and 9pm. In major cities, especially Seoul, some stores like Dongdaemun Market never close. Large supermarkets are closed on the2nd and4th Sundays of each month (Wednesdays in some cities) to reduce competition with traditional markets.
Budget & Tips
As far as clothing stores are concerned, it's like everywhere else, there are some really cheap items and others that are a little more expensive. If you want to do luxury shopping you have to go to the Duty Free, places where there is no tax. But in reality in South Korea, the cost of living is going to be similar to that of France. Smokers will be able to take advantage of very low rates on cigarettes (4,500 won for a packet) and thus fill up before taking the plane.
Sales
It's like a year-round sale in South Korea! Interesting discounts and promotions are everywhere, especially in the cosmetics sector. The most famous sale period is the Korea Grand Sale, which runs from February 18 to 28. During this period, you can say goodbye to taxes in the most popular tourist areas: Seoul, Busan, Jeju...
Tourist traps
For payment, all credit and debit cards are generally accepted everywhere. Occasionally, however, you may be told that your card doesn't work and that you need to pay in cash. This can happen, for example, at ticket machines for trains and buses. It's also worth noting that some shopkeepers avoid taxes as much as possible, making foreigners ideal prey. Even if it's not a scam in the strict sense of the word, it happens frequently, so always remember to carry cash.