Steps
- 01
Look for a participating tax-refund sign before buying.
- 02
Present the passport when the store requests it.
- 03
Check the name, purchase amount, and refund method on the document.
- 04
Keep receipts and refund records together.
- 05
At departure, follow current customs validation and kiosk or counter instructions.
- 06
Confirm where the refund will be paid or credited before leaving Korea.
Before you start
- For foreign tourists: stay under six months, participating-store purchases of at least KRW 15,000, unused and unopened goods, and departure within three months of purchase.
- Ask whether the store offers immediate or later refund processing.
- Keep purchases available for inspection until departure.
Easy points to confuse
- Assuming every shop participates
- Packing goods where they cannot be inspected
- Throwing away the refund record
Practical example
For a refund error, use the refund-company name, help number and barcode on the Tax Refund document, not just the shop receipt. Prepare purchase date, amount, passport name, refund method and submission screen. If customs inspection is required, show the goods before checking the bag. Confirm that a downtown booth handles your refund company before visiting.
Sources and review date · 1
Checked 2026-10-10 · Review by 2026-11-10