Olive Young First-Timers Read This! The Complete K-Beauty Shopping Guide A to Z (2025 Ver.)

Planned your trip to Korea, but feeling overwhelmed about what to buy at the famous ‘Olive Young’? ?That tint your K-pop bias uses, that serum blowing up on social media… where do you even begin?

It’s okay, you’re not alone! It’s perfectly normal to feel lost among hundreds of brands and thousands of products.That’s why today, I’ve prepared the ultimate Olive Young Shopping Guide for Foreigners that will be the highlight of your Korea trip. Just follow this, and you’ll conquer K-Beauty, guaranteed!

 

? What Exactly is Olive Young?

You’ve probably heard the name ‘Olive Young’ in K-dramas or on YouTube, right? What kind of place is it that makes people plan their Korea trips around the ‘Olive Young Sale’?Simply put, Olive Young is Korea’s number one H&B (Health & Beauty) store. Cosmetics, of course, plus health supplements, perfumes, body & hair products, and even delicious K-snacks!

It’s literally a place that has gathered everything related to ‘health and beauty’ in one spot.Since opening its first store in Sinsa-dong in 1999, it now operates over 1,300 stores nationwide, making it the epicenter of K-Beauty trends.

H&B Store? What’s that?

H&B store stands for ‘Health & Beauty,’ and it’s a bit different from traditional cosmetic shops (road shops).Its biggest advantage is that instead of selling just one brand, you can compare and test hundreds of different domestic and international beauty and healthcare brands all in one place.

You can think of it as similar to ‘Sephora’ or ‘Ulta’ in the US, or drugstores like ‘Don Quijote’ or ‘Matsumoto Kiyoshi’ in Japan.However, Olive Young is particularly strong at discovering and introducing trendy small-to-medium-sized Korean brands (K-Indie Beauty)!

Olive Young’s Slogan: “All Live Young”

There’s a fun meaning hidden in the name Olive Young. It’s the brand slogan: “All Live Young.”It carries the meaning of helping everyone live a young and healthy lifestyle.
It aims to be more than just a place that sells cosmetics; it strives to be a ‘lifestyle platform’ that suggests healthy ways of living to its customers.

That’s why when you visit a store, you’ll find various lifestyle items like vegan snacks, health supplements, and sleep aids, not just beauty products.

 

✨ The Real Reason Foreigners are Crazy About Olive Young

So, why do tourists from all over the world make Olive Young a ‘must-visit course’ on their Korea trip? The reasons are clear.First, it’s a ‘holy land’ where you can experience all of K-Beauty in one place. Second is its unbeatable ‘shopping accessibility.’

Finally, it’s due to its ‘proven popularity,’ as evidenced by tons of data.These three charm points are what draw foreign visitors to Olive Young.

The Holy Land of K-Beauty, an Epitome of Trends

The products you’ve seen in “Korean actress skincare routines” or “K-pop idol makeup” tutorials on YouTube or TikTok? You can find most of them at Olive Young.

From luxury conglomerate brands to up-and-coming indie brands, hundreds of brands are available.

It’s especially a paradise for ‘beauty early adopters’ who want to be the first to experience K-beauty trends, as new products or special sets exclusive to Korea are launched here the fastest.

Just by browsing the ‘Best 100’ corner in the store, you can instantly tell what’s most popular in Korea right now.

Peak Shopping Accessibility (Offline + Global Mall)

Another major strength of Olive Young is ‘accessibility.’ You can find an Olive Young store wherever you go in major tourist areas like Myeong-dong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Seongsu.

They’re so common you might find one on every other block, so you can easily drop by anytime during your trip.

Some large flagship stores even have staff who can speak English, Chinese, or Japanese to help with your shopping.

What’s even more amazing is that you can continue shopping even after leaving Korea! Through the ‘Olive Young Global Mall’ website or app, you can order products and have them shipped almost anywhere in the world.

Popularity Proven by Data (Surging Foreigner Sales)

This popularity isn’t just a ‘vibe.’ According to official press releases from CJ Olive Young, sales to foreign customers have been exploding year after year.

In the first half of 2024, sales to foreigners reportedly increased by over 140% compared to the previous year, so it’s no exaggeration to say Olive Young is at the center of ‘K-Beauty Tourism.’

This popularity, in turn, leads to a virtuous cycle where Olive Young strengthens its services for foreign customers (multilingual support, global card payments, instant tax refunds, etc.).Now, Olive Young shopping is no longer an option, but a must.

 

?️ Must-Check Shopping Tips Before You Visit!

Alright, are you ready to charge into Olive Young? Hold on a minute! If you just go in empty-handed, you might be flustered by unexpected spending and wasted time.
To shop wisely amidst the sea of products, here are 4 essential tips to know before you visit.

Just keeping these in mind will make for a much more satisfying Olive Young shopping experience.The tax refund benefits and inventory checks are especially important, so don’t forget them!

“Expert Tip: While it’s best to aim for the ‘Olive Young Sale’ period, don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t align with your travel dates. ‘Today’s Special (O-Teuk)’ deals and brand-specific 1+1 promotions run constantly. Also, larger stores frequently offer foreigner-only discount coupons or gift events, so be sure to check the signs near the checkout counter!”

✅ 1. Check for Tax-Free and Discount Benefits

The biggest benefit for foreign tourists is the ‘tax refund’! In Korea, you can get a refund on the VAT (Value Added Tax) for purchases over a certain amount (currently 15,000 KRW).

When paying, say “Tax-Free, please!” and show your passport. Some stores offer an immediate discount (refund), while most will issue a receipt you can use to get a refund at the airport.Additionally, stores in special tourist zones like Myeong-dong or Hongdae sometimes run 10-15% instant discount promotions for foreigners, so keep an eye out for posters at the store entrance.

Just by taking advantage of this, you can save quite a bit of money.

✅ 2. Checking Stock for Popular Items is a Must!

Hot new products or popular shades you see on social media sell out in a flash. The competition is especially fierce at the Myeong-dong, Seongsu, and Hongdae stores.
If you don’t want to make a wasted trip, it’s best to check the stock beforehand on the Olive Young app (requires a Korean account) or the Global Mall.

If using the Korean app is difficult, try going to the store early in the morning or target smaller stores in residential areas with less tourist traffic.

You’ll want to avoid the disaster of trying to buy something at the last minute only to find it’s sold out, right?

✅ 3. Create ‘Your Own Shopping List’ in Advance

Olive Young stores are huge and packed with products. If you wander around thinking, “What should I buy?” an hour or two will fly by.To save your precious travel time, I strongly recommend making a shopping list in advance.

It’s a good idea to set priorities like ‘Must-Buys (e.g., Dokdo Toner, Rom&nd tint),’ ‘Considering (e.g., Hera cushion),’ and ‘For Gifts (e.g., mask pack set).’You can even show your list to a staff member to get help finding products faster.

✅ 4. Consider Weight and Carry-on Restrictions

It’s easy to forget your suitcase weight limits when you’re deep in a shopping spree. Liquids like toners, serums, and shampoos are especially bulky and heavy.Check your airline’s baggage weight limits in advance and set a purchasing limit for yourself.

Also, remember that liquids you can carry on the plane are limited to containers of 100ml or less, with a total limit of 1 liter. Any product over 100ml must be packed in your checked luggage, so please consider this when shopping!

 

? A Must-Visit on Your Korea Trip! TOP 5 Stores for Foreigners

Olive Young is everywhere in Korea, but each store has slightly different characteristics. Some stores specialize in multilingual services, while others frequently host trendy pop-up stores.

I’ve selected the TOP 5 stores that are great for foreign tourists to visit and truly experience K-beauty trends.Try visiting a store that matches your travel itinerary and shopping style.The table summarizing each store’s features will also be helpful for planning your route.

1. Myeong-dong Flagship Store

This is, without a doubt, the number one store for foreign visitors. If you want to see ‘everything Olive Young has to offer,’ this is the place.

It’s safe to say that almost every K-beauty brand is available in this massive 2-story store.It has the best multilingual support (ENG/CHN/JPN) and the most foreigner-exclusive promotions and special sets.

However, it’s always crowded, so I recommend visiting in the morning.

2. Seongsu Store

Located in Seongsu-dong, the ‘hippest’ neighborhood in Seoul right now. It’s famous for its aesthetic interior and photo spots like the ‘Pink Mirror Zone.’

The hallmark of the Seongsu store is that it frequently hosts pop-up stores for trendy indie brands.If you want to be the first to discover unique brands or new products you can’t find at other stores, visit the Seongsu store.

There are also many pretty cafes and restaurants nearby, making it perfect to bundle into your travel itinerary.

3. Hongdae Store

Located in Hongdae, the street of youth, this store is packed with brands favored by teens and people in their 20s.

The color cosmetics, perfume, and hair styling sections are particularly well-stocked.
Don’t forget to take an SNS-worthy picture at the ‘Neon Zone’ photo spot inside the store!

With busking performances and street food nearby, it’s the perfect place to enjoy K-culture at the same time.

 

? 2025 Latest! K-Beauty Shopping List for Foreigners

Finally, the most important part: the shopping list! I’ve compiled the products most loved by both Koreans and foreigners as of the first half of 2025, based on Olive Young reviews, sales, and social media mentions, categorized for your convenience.

Of course, not every product will be a perfect match for your skin type, so don’t forget to test them out in the store.

This list will be an excellent guide to help cut down on your decision time.Just by grabbing these items, you’ll be able to say your ‘K-Beauty shopping was a success!’

? Skincare – The Ultimate Soothing & Hydration

The strengths of Korean skincare are ‘soothing’ and ‘hydration.’ The 2025 trend continues to be low-irritation, dermo-cosmetics.

Products containing ‘soothing’ ingredients like Cica (Centella Asiatica), Heartleaf (Eoseongcho), and Panthenol are consistently popular.Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid serums that tackle inner-skin dryness and creams that strengthen the skin barrier are all-season essentials.

You can easily find the products in the table below in Olive Young’s skincare bestseller section.

? Suncare – A 365-Day Essential

It’s no exaggeration to say that the power of K-Beauty shines in its ‘sunscreens.’ There are so many products that apply as smoothly as lotion without any white cast.

Lately, ‘sun sticks’ that you can apply without using your hands and products with added cooling functions are popular.

Relief Sun (Beauty of Joseon, BOJ): Known as the ‘clear rice sunscreen,’ it feels comfortable like skincare, containing rice extract and probiotics. 

Quick Sun Stick (Abib): Abib’s bestseller. Easy to apply with its wide surface, and convenient as it can be reapplied over makeup. Heartleaf Silky Moisture Sun Cream (Anua): Anua’s heartleaf line is famous for its soothing effects. This is a moisturizing sunscreen, just like a hydrating essence.

? Color Makeup – The Secret to K-Idol Looks

If you want to achieve that K-pop idol ‘fruit-juice makeup’ or ‘glass skin’ look, pay attention.

Korean color makeup is known for its natural pigmentation and excellent longevity.
Tints, cushion foundations, and eyeshadow palettes are must-buy items.
In 2025, melting balms that create ‘Tangled (tanghulu) lips’ and cream blushes for a natural flush are all the rage.

? Mask Packs & Toner Pads

As expected from the land of ‘1-day-1-pack,’ sheet masks and toner pads are top-tier in both cost-effectiveness and quality.

They are also the easiest and most popular items to buy as gifts.’Toner pads,’ which are used to gently wipe the face or as a spot mask, are a key item in the Korean beauty routine, so you should definitely try them.

Products with excellent soothing effects are especially popular.

 

? Smart Shopping Guide: From Payment to Tax Refund

Once you’ve diligently filled your shopping list, the most important steps remain: ‘payment’ and ‘tax refund.’Korea supports various payment methods, and foreign tourists can enjoy the very special benefit of a ‘tax refund.’

It might seem complicated, but it’s actually really simple once you know how.I’ll walk you through everything from payment methods to the tax refund process and even the return policy, just in case.

? Payment Methods

Most Olive Young stores support a variety of payment methods.Credit Card: Foreign-issued credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and JCB are widely accepted. 

Mobile Pay: Apple Pay and Samsung Pay are accepted. (Note: Some stores may only accept Apple Pay linked with a Hyundai Card). 

Easy Payment: Some stores in tourist-heavy areas also support Alipay or WeChat Pay. Cash: Of course, payment in Korean Won (KRW) cash is also possible.

✈️ Tax-Free Process – Don’t Forget This!

This is really important! Foreign tourists can get a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) for goods purchased in Korea.

1. Request at Checkout: At the counter, say “Tax-Free, please!” and you must present your passport (physical or mobile passport). 

2. instant Refund: If your purchase amount is below a certain limit (currently 500,000 KRW per transaction, 2.5M KRW total), the VAT will be deducted immediately from your total. 

This is the most convenient way! (Mainly supported at large stores in Myeong-dong, Hongdae, etc.) 

3. Airport Refund: Stores that don’t offer instant refunds will issue you a ‘Tax Refund Slip.’

Collect these slips and get your refund at the ‘Tax Refund’ kiosk or counter at your departure airport (Incheon, Gimpo, etc.).

? Refund Policy

You might need a refund if you change your mind or if a product is faulty.Requirements: You must bring the original receipt and the card (or payment method) you used for the purchase. 

Product Condition: Refunds are generally only possible for unopened, original products (usually within 7-14 days). 

Non-Refundable: Items on sale, 1+1 sets, or opened products may be difficult to return, so it’s best to check before buying.

The process can be complicated if you received an instant tax refund, so purchase thoughtfully.

 

✈️ K-Beauty: The Perfect Finale to Your Korea Trip

How was that? Does shopping at Olive Young feel a little less daunting now?Olive Young is more than just a drugstore; it’s a ‘playground’ where you can directly experience Korea’s latest beauty trends and lifestyle culture.

I hope you enjoy the fun of finding your own K-beauty items based on the tips and shopping list I shared today.I hope this Olive Young Shopping Guide for Foreigners makes your trip to Korea even richer and more perfect!

Beyond Shopping, an Experience of ‘K-Culture’

If you look around an Olive Young store carefully, you can see what Koreans in their 20s and 30s are interested in right now.Vegan beauty, inner beauty (like collagen jellies), sleep care (sleep masks, aroma oils), and healthy snacks (protein chips, zero-sugar drinks).

Go beyond just buying cosmetics and experience the Korean ‘lifestyle’ itself.Listening to the latest K-pop playing in the store is also part of the fun.

Finally, Find Your Own Beauty Routine

Just because a product is the #1 bestseller doesn’t mean it will be your ‘holy grail’ item.
The biggest advantage of Olive Young is that ‘testers’ are freely available.Use the recommendation list as a reference, but take your time to test if products match your skin type and if you like the colors.

The process of building ‘your own K-beauty routine,’ rather than just buying what everyone else buys, is the true joy of Olive Young shopping.

 

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I’ve gathered some questions you might still have after reading this Olive Young Shopping Guide for Foreigners. Here are 30 Q&As to clear up any lingering doubts!

Q1. How many times a year does Olive Young have sales?

A: The biggest ‘Olive Young Sale’ usually happens in early March, June, September, and December. You can think of it as a quarterly event, four times a year. Besides these, there are ‘Today’s Special’ deals and brand-specific sales all the time.

Q2. What is the minimum purchase amount for a Tax Refund?

A: As of 2025, you can receive tax refund benefits for purchases of 15,000 KRW or more in a single transaction at one store. (This was lowered from the previous 30,000 KRW). The instant refund limit has also been raised, so keep that in mind.

Q3. Can I get a tax refund with just a copy (photo) of my passport?

A: Yes, you can. A physical passport is best, but most stores will process the tax refund if you show a photo of your passport on your phone or use a ‘mobile passport’ app.

Q4. Are the prices on the Olive Young Global Mall different from Korean stores?

A: Yes, they can be. The Global Mall sells products based in US dollars ($) and prices may differ from Korean stores due to shipping fees and potential customs duties. Also, in-store promotions like 1+1 deals or instant discounts may not apply.

Q5. Are there any skincare brands you recommend for sensitive skin?

A: Absolutely. Brands like Physiogel, Dr.G, Anua, and Beplain are very famous for their soothing lines for sensitive skin.

Q6. Can I find vegan beauty products?

A: Yes, many Olive Young stores have dedicated ‘Vegan Beauty’ or ‘Clean Beauty’ sections. ‘Dear, Klairs,’ some ‘Round Lab’ products, and ‘Aromatica’ are representative vegan or vegan-friendly brands.

Q7. I want to know which products K-pop idols actually use.

A: Brands frequently mentioned by idol makeup artists include ‘Clio,’ ‘Dasique,’ and ‘Rom&nd.’ Look for the ‘Idol Makeup’ curation corner in the store.

Q8. Can you recommend a good mask pack set for gifts?

A: ‘Mediheal’ or ‘Abib’ mask packs are the most popular for gifts as they offer a wide variety and guaranteed quality. I recommend buying a special set (Box) that includes several different types.

Q9. Are there any ‘K-snacks’ I must buy besides cosmetics?

A: Olive Young’s hidden gems are its snacks. You must try the ‘Delight Project’ Bagel Chips (Garlic Butter, Choco Cinnamon flavors), various protein chips, and konjac jellies.

Q10. Are there products for men to buy as a gift for my boyfriend?

A: Yes, Olive Young has a well-stocked ‘Men’s Care’ section. ‘Ideal for Men,’ ‘Dr.G’s’ men’s line, and ‘Dashu’ hair wax are all very popular.

Q11. What are the typical business hours for Olive Young?

A: It varies by store, but they are generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Stores in busy areas like Myeong-dong or Gangnam may stay open later, until 11:00 PM. It’s best to check the hours on Google Maps before visiting.

Q12. How should I choose a cushion foundation shade (color)?

A: Korean cushions are typically based on shades 21 (bright skin) and 23 (natural skin). The most accurate way is to apply a tester directly on your jawline, blending into your neck, to see if it matches your skin tone naturally.

Q13. What does a 1+1 event mean?

A: It means ‘One Plus One.’ If you buy one product, you get another one for free. It’s a great chance to get two items for the price of one!

Q14. Are there ‘exclusive’ products only available at Olive Young?

A: Yes, many! Look for products with tags that say ‘[OY Exclusive]’ or ‘[Only Olive Young].’ These are often special sets with increased volume or extra gift items.

Q15. Can you recommend hair products (shampoo, treatment)?

A: ‘Mise-en-scène’ Perfect Serum is so popular it’s called the ‘national hair serum.’ For shampoo, ‘Aromatica’s’ Rosemary Shampoo or ‘Labo-H’s’ Hair Loss Relief Shampoo are bestsellers.

Q16. Do they give out samples at checkout?

A: It depends on your purchase amount and store policy. Large stores sometimes have events where they give out sample kits for purchases over a certain amount. It doesn’t hurt to politely ask, “Can I get some samples?” at checkout.

Q17. Do you sell K-beauty devices?

A: Yes. If you go to stores like the Gangnam Station Mega Store, you’ll find a separate ‘Beauty Device’ corner. You can test and purchase ‘Medicube’s’ EMS/RF devices or LED masks.

Q18. Aren’t Korean tints too drying?

A: Matte tints used to be the trend, but as of 2025, moist ‘glow tints’ or ‘melting balms’ are the mainstream. Try the glow products from Rom&nd, Amuse, or Hera.

Q19. What does ‘Dak-To’ mean?

A: It’s a Korean abbreviation for ‘wiping toner.’ It refers to the skincare step of soaking a cotton pad with toner and wiping it across the skin to remove any leftover residue after cleansing and to exfoliate. Round Lab’s Dokdo Toner is famous for this ‘Dak-To’ step.

Q20. I want to find products that match my ‘Personal Color.’

A: Many Olive Young stores have corners curated for ‘Warm Tones’ and ‘Cool Tones.’ Many products, like Dasique or Clio palettes, are even released in separate versions for warm/cool tones, so check those out.

Q21. Do I have to download the Olive Young app?

A: It’s not essential for tourists. The app for Korean stores may require a Korean phone number for verification. Instead, you can use the ‘Olive Young Global Mall’ app/website to shop from outside Korea.

Q22. What body care products are famous?

A: ‘Illyoon’s’ Ceramide Ato Lotion is very popular as a body lotion because it’s gentle and very moisturizing. ‘Kundal’s’ hair and body products are also popular for their wide variety of scents and good value.

Q23. Can I test perfumes?

A: Of course. Large stores like the one in Hongdae have a very large ‘Perfume’ section. You can freely test everything from niche perfumes like Diptyque and Jo Malone to trendy Korean brands like ‘Tamburins.’

Q24. Can you recommend inner beauty products like collagen or vitamins?

A: ‘Vital Beautie’s’ Super Collagen ampoules or ‘Orthomol’ Immun vitamins are the most popular. Film-type vitamins that you can take without water are also convenient.

Q25. Can I buy ‘Yakgwa’ at Olive Young?

A: Yes, as ‘Yakgwa’ (honey cookie) has recently become a trendy K-dessert, Olive Young also sells ‘Honey Yakgwa’ or ‘Yakgwa Cookies.’ Look for them in the snack corner.

Q26. There are too many products, I can’t choose. Can I ask for a staff recommendation?

A: Absolutely! Olive Young staff are well-trained experts. Even if you just say, “My skin is dry” or “I’m looking for a gift,” they will kindly help you.

Q27. How do I check the expiration date?

A: It is marked on the back or bottom of the product, usually in the format ‘YYYY.MM.DD 까지’ (Until) or ‘EXP: YYYY.MM.DD’ (Expiration Date). Also, check the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol (e.g., 6M, 12M).

Q28. Can foreigners also earn Olive Young points?

A: Earning CJ ONE points is for Korean residents (who can verify with a Korean phone number). For short-term tourists, it’s more beneficial to focus on the instant tax refund benefits.

Q29. Is it better to buy the ‘Special Sets’?

A: In most cases, yes. They are very cost-effective as they often include extra gift items (miniature toners, creams, cotton pads, etc.) for the price of the main product.

Q30. Do I need to keep the ‘Instant Tax Refund’ receipt separately?

A: No, if you received an ‘instant refund,’ the tax has already been deducted from your payment. You don’t need to get a separate refund at the airport. Just keep your purchase receipt for your records.

 

That concludes the Olive Young Shopping Guide for Foreigners! ?️I hope your K-beauty shopping is no longer confusing and is filled with fun experiences.

I hope you find your perfect products from the recommendations and make lots of unforgettable memories in Korea!
Happy travels, and happy shopping!