Aahh… The land of the morning calm and Hallyu waves. You’ve binged every K-drama under the sun, dreamt of strolling through Namsan Tower like a scene from Crash Landing on You, or picnicking on Nami Island just like in Winter Sonata.
But let’s be real, once you actually get to South Korea, there’s another, equally thrilling mission that’s pretty much unavoidable – SHOPPING!
From the latest K-beauty trends that’ll make your skin look like a newborn baby’s, to adorable K-pop merch, to fashion finds that’ll make you feel like you stepped straight out of a Seoul street style blog, there are just so many awesome things to stash away and bring back home to Malaysia.
Shopping in Korea is a whole new adventure, so get ready to ditch the “just browse” mindset and dive in!
This guide is here to help you navigate the bustling streets of Seoul for the ultimate retail therapy experience, all with a special Muslim-friendly twist. Get ready to shop ’til you drop!”
Must-Buy Items in Seoul: A Muslim-Friendly Selection
Seoul offers a treasure trove of products that cater to diverse tastes. Here’s a curated list of must-buy items, with a special emphasis on Muslim-friendly options and where to find them.
1. Fashion: Modest Trends with a Korean Touch
Korean fashion has captivated K-culture enthusiasts globally, significantly shaping international trends. When you think of Korean fashion, what comes to mind?
Here are some brands and items that fits the Muslim-friendly K-look:
- Oversized hoodies and graphic tees at Naning9, M. Playground, or 8Seconds
8Seconds (Instagram)
- Simple yet elegant designs of Korean jewelry and cute hair accessories from SALES 50 or SIGONGGAN
SIGGOGAN (Image credits: Tripadvisor)
- chic Korean bags at Squareline Itaewon
All of these are integral to the vibrant Korean fashion scene!
Even global fashion icon G-Dragon, known for his trendsetting style, embodies this blend of international flair and local appreciation. While he’s a muse for luxury items, he also showcases a deep connection to Korean fashion and has been spotted exploring vintage clothes in the eclectic Dongmyo Flea Market in Seoul.
Don’t miss out on the infamous GD Alley while you’re there too!
Tip for Travelers: Korean fashion’s embrace of loose silhouettes, layering, and neutral palettes makes it naturally adaptable for Muslim travelers seeking trendy, modest K-items. Focus on areas like Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Ewha Womans University Shopping Street, or even Underground Shopping Centers (e.g., Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping Center) for a wide array of fashion items, often at great prices.
Shop and experience the bustling, vibrant nightlife at the 1.4km stretch of Itaewon Street!
2. Cosmetics: K-Beauty for Every Skin Type
K-beauty is renowned for its innovative formulations and emphasis on healthy, glowing skin. Many products are developed with natural ingredients.
Shopping for cosmetics and skincare will leave you floored and indecisive as there are just too many varieties you can choose from!
Stores like The Mask Shop have a great assortment of cosmetic products to choose from! The store is said to be less crowded and have more affordable priced cosmetic products compared to Olive Young.
If you haven’t got a list of Korean beauty staples to purchase on your trip, this list below should do just the trick:
- Sheet masks
- Lip tints for a natural flush of color
- Sunscreens
- Serums
- For gifting: a beautifully packaged Korean skincare gift set featuring mini-sized products
Aside from Olive Young, Etude House, or InnisFree flagship stores, travellers can also checkout the chameleon Amore Seongsu’s flagship store where something new and exciting awaits you every month!
They host dynamic themed exhibitions and exclusive brand pop-ups, but it’s their personalised services that truly make them unique. You can create your dream foundation and lipstick perfectly matched to your skin tone with their Custom Beauty Service using AI technology.
Or, experience CUSTOM.ME, where they craft a unique essence just for you after a thorough skin analysis. Looking to elevate your makeup game? Their professional artists also offer Makeup Touch-Up Service and engaging Makeup Classes!
You can also take home some FREE Korean beauty samples.
Tip for Travelers: While Amorepacific has launched their Halal skincare products in 2022, it is equally important to look for labels like “alcohol-free,” “ethanol-free,” or “fragrance-free” if you have sensitivities. When in doubt, use a translation app to scan ingredient lists.
3. Food and Snacks: Halal Delights to Savor
With the worldwide rise of K-dramas and K-pop among Muslim fans, the country has recognised the growing demand — and in response, made strong, thoughtful efforts to become more inclusive and welcoming in being a food haven too!
Areas like Itaewon in Seoul are particularly famous, serving up everything from halal Korean BBQ and fried chicken to tasty halal-certified street food.
You can also dine with confidence thanks to the KMF Halal Committee, South Korea’s official halal certification body, which ensures that halal labels are trustworthy and recognised nationwide.
The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) is a great resource too, actively promoting Muslim-friendly restaurants. They provide detailed lists of eateries clearly marked with halal certifications or Muslim-friendly labels, making it simple for travelers to find suitable dining options.
Here are some of the many delicious and safe snacks to bring home with you:
Ginseng products: Korean red ginseng (Hongsam) in various forms (extracts, candies, teas) is highly regarded for its health benefits.
You can get them at reputable stores like Jung Kwan Jang (Cheong Kwan Jang) and in markets like Namdaemun Ginseng Market.
- Seaweed snacks (Gim): Light, crispy, and incredibly addictive, available in various flavors (e.g. Myungga Seaweed Snack, Bibigo Savory Roasted Seaweed, and Manna Seasoned Seaweed)
- Rice crackers and puffed grain snacks: Many varieties are naturally halal and make for a healthy snack.
- Halal-certified Ramyeon (Instant Noodles): While challenging to find, some brands are now producing halal-certified instant noodles. So, be sure to look for the Halal logo.
Tip for Travelers: Make your culinary journey even smoother by downloading the MUFKO app! This handy app lets you scan product barcodes while you’re out and about in Korea to instantly check if snacks, groceries, and local dishes are halal-certified. Enjoy local treats without a worry!
Explore South Korea’s vibrant soul with a trip tailored for Muslim travellers!
4. K-Pop and K-Drama Merchandise: Bring Home Your Bias
For fans of the Korean wave, bringing home official merchandise is a necessity! There is a range of items you can buy such as concert essentials (e.g. lightstick, official albums, photocards), T-shirts, posters, and other fan-specific memorabilia.
For a unique souvenir idea, you can opt for a limited-edition K-pop idol collaboration item (e.g., a specific brand of cosmetics, clothing line, or even food products endorsed by your idol). These are highly sought after by fans!
With so many K-pop stores available, it’s time to “get your cray’on” and start shopping right away! Check out this list below:
- Myeongdong: Numerous K-pop stores (e.g., Music Korea, K-Pop Friends, K-Mecca, Buruttrak) cater to fans, offering a wide range of merchandise.
- Hongdae: Another vibrant area with many independent K-pop shops and underground stores (e.g. Withmuu, Idollook, and BT21).
Travel to the birthplace of your idols at the memorable K-Star ROAD!
5. Traditional Souvenirs: A Touch of Korean Heritage
Meaningful keepsakes are more than just the mass-produced trinkets that say “I Love Seoul”. For a more cultural memento, consider beautiful traditional Korean items that offer a genuine connection to the country’s vibrant culture.
They’re echoes of a profound heritage, crafted with centuries of skill and aesthetic sensibility which means that you’re bringing home a piece of Korea’s soul, something that tells a story and sparks conversations.
Here’s what to buy:
- Najeonchilgi (Mother-of-Pearl Lacquerware): Prepare to be mesmerised by Najeonchilgi, an art form that transforms ordinary objects into shimmering masterpieces. This traditional Korean handicraft involves meticulously inlaying vibrant, iridescent pieces of abalone or other shellfish onto lacquered wooden surfaces.
The result is a stunning play of light and color, creating intricate patterns that dance with every angle. From elegant jewelry boxes and decorative mirrors to larger furniture pieces, Najeonchilgi items are true works of art, representing centuries of skill and patience.
Owning a piece of Najeonchilgi is like owning a piece of captured starlight, reflecting Korea’s deep artistic legacy.
Beyond just buying, you can make your Najeonchilgi piece uniquely memorable by crafting it yourself in a dedicated class at places like Hwiho Craft!
- Hanboks (Traditional Korean Clothing): While a full, custom-made Hanbok might be a significant investment, you can still capture its beauty.
Look for miniature Hanboks perfect for display, Hanbok-inspired accessories like hairpins or pouches, or even consider renting one for a unique photoshoot experience at a historical site or the infamous Bukchon Hanok Village. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the past and create lasting memories.
- Norigae: These exquisite traditional Korean ornamental pendants are a feast for the eyes.
Designed to be attached to clothing (especially Hanboks), bags, or simply used as decorative pieces, Norigae come in an array of intricate designs and vibrant colors.
Each one is a miniature work of art, often symbolising good fortune and prosperity which can also act as your house decor.
- Bangjja (Korean Bronze Ware): Discover the enduring beauty of high-quality traditional Korean bronze ware. Often used as tableware, Bangjja pieces are renowned for their durability, unique golden hue, and elegant aesthetic.
They are a testament to Korean craftsmanship and will add a touch of sophisticated heritage to any home.
You can easily get souvenirs from any shop, but traditional souvenirs that are authentic are the ones that offer a lasting connection to Korea’s rich past. Here’s where to buy them:
- Insadong: This is arguably the quintessential destination for traditional Korean crafts, art, and souvenirs with over 100 galleries in the area.
Here, you can observe skilled artisans as they work and purchase their creations firsthand from their workshops. Keep an eye out for exquisite hanji paper goods, vibrantly hand-painted masks, intricately embroidered pouches, and beautifully carved wooden objects.
For a concentrated dose of handmade treasures, head to the Ssamziegil complex, which is home to more than 70 shops brimming with unique artisanal items and artwork. And if you’re seeking to delve into the art of calligraphy, make sure to visit Tongmungwan, Seoul’s oldest bookstore.
Tips for travellers: Don’t be afraid to venture into the smaller alleys off the main street; this is where you’ll find more unique and authentic pieces. Look for shops that display certifications or information about the artisans.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace area: Shops around the palace often sell traditional items catering to tourists. They often stock basic Norigae designs, traditional stationery with palace motifs, and simpler traditional craft items. While you might find some Najeonchilgi here, it will likely be smaller, more mass-produced items like mirror compacts or small jewelry boxes, rather than large, intricate pieces.
Tip for travellers: Enter Gyeongbokgung Palace for free by wearing a hanbok!
Things to Know When You Are Shopping in Seoul
Seoul offers an incredible shopping experience, from cutting-edge fashion to traditional crafts. To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, especially for Muslim travelers, here are some key things to keep in mind.
1. Halal Awareness: Shop with Confidence
Navigating food and cosmetic purchases as a Muslim traveler in Seoul requires a bit of extra attention, but it’s definitely manageable.
- Importance of Checking Ingredients: This really can’t be stressed enough, especially for food and cosmetics. Always double-check ingredient lists for animal-derived products (like gelatin, pork, or certain E-numbers) or alcohol. Many products might contain these hidden ingredients, so a quick scan is crucial.
Look for Halal Certifications: While not as widespread as in Muslim-majority countries, some products in Korea do carry a halal certification.
Keep an eye out for the logo from the Korean Muslim Federation (KMF); it’s a reliable indicator that the product meets halal standards.
- Utilise Technology: Don’t hesitate to use translation apps on your phone. If you’re unsure about an ingredient label, simply snap a picture or type in the text to get an instant translation. This is an invaluable tool for confident shopping.
The MUFKO app is also handy in allowing you to scan product barcodes as it instantly checks if snacks, groceries, and local dishes are halal-certified.
2. Language Tips
While many shopkeepers in Seoul’s popular tourist areas have a basic grasp of English, knowing a few essential Korean phrases can genuinely enhance your shopping experience and show your appreciation for the local culture!
- “Juseyo” (주세요): This means “Please give me.” It’s incredibly useful when you’re pointing to an item you’d like to purchase.
- “Eolmayeyo?” (얼마예요?): This translates to “How much is it?” – a must-know for any shopper!
- “Kamsahamnida” (감사합니다): A simple “Thank you” goes a long way and is always appreciated.
3. Where to Shop Safely
Seoul is renowned for being a very safe city, and you can shop with peace of mind. For the best experience, focus your shopping adventures in these well-known and bustling areas:
- Myeongdong: This is a vibrant hub famous for its endless array of cosmetics, exciting K-pop merchandise, and the latest trendy fashion. It’s always lively, well-lit, and perfect for an energetic shopping spree.
- Hongdae: Popular with young people, Hongdae offers a more unique fashion scene, quirky independent boutiques, and more K-pop shops. It’s a fantastic spot if you’re looking for something a bit different and want to soak in the youthful energy.
- Dongdaemun: Considered the ultimate fashion hub of Seoul, Dongdaemun boasts numerous large malls and wholesale markets. It’s incredibly bustling, often even late into the night, making it ideal for those who love to shop at any hour.
- Insadong: For a dive into Korea’s artistic soul, head to Insadong. This area is the cultural heart of Seoul, perfect for discovering authentic traditional crafts, beautiful artwork, and unique souvenirs. You can even watch artisans at work and buy directly from their workshops here.
Your Unforgettable Seoul Shopping Journey Awaits!
Seoul truly is a shopper’s paradise, offering an incredible array of products from cutting-edge fashion and innovative beauty to delicious snacks and treasured traditional crafts.
By being mindful of halal considerations and knowing where to look, Muslim travelers can enjoy a seamless and rewarding shopping experience. So pack your bags, prepare your shopping list, and get ready to discover the wonders of Seoul!
Ready for a journey where your faith and wanderlust go hand-in-hand? Dina Travel crafts unforgettable getaways that are both meaningful and completely Muslim-friendly. Let us help you explore the world on your terms, from specially curated stays to enriching spiritual journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
While not as prevalent as in Muslim-majority countries, it is becoming easier to find Muslim-friendly snacks. Look for products with the Korean Muslim Federation (KMF) halal logo, or stick to naturally halal options like many seaweed snacks, rice crackers, and certain teas. You can also use translation apps to check ingredients for further assurance.
Yes, Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, can be very modest and suitable for Muslims. The long skirts and layered tops provide excellent coverage. Many tourists enjoy renting Hanbok for a unique cultural experience and photoshoot.
Many K-beauty products are suitable, especially those focusing on natural ingredients and gentle formulations. However, it’s crucial to check the ingredient list for alcohol (ethanol) or animal-derived components. Brands like Some By Mi, Benton, and Purito often have alcohol-free options.
Yes, most traditional Korean souvenirs like Norigae, Korean tea sets, and Bangjja (bronze ware) are cultural items that are universally respectful and carry no specific religious connotations that would conflict with Islamic culture.
Finding halal-certified Korean instant noodles has become easier, with some brands like Samyang (known for their Buldak noodles) offering halal-certified versions. Always look for the specific halal logo on the packaging.