Seoul stands out as a premier shopping destination, offering Australian tourists an impressive range of experiences from slick, modern retail districts to vibrant traditional markets. Districts like Myeongdong are renowned for their energetic street scenes and global brand flagships, making them a hotspot for fashion enthusiasts and beauty aficionados alike. Here, visitors can browse the latest Korean and international styles, test out innovative beauty products, and soak up the lively atmosphere created by street performers and open-air food stalls. Commercial centers like Lotte Department Store and Shinsegae provide ample luxury shopping opportunities, blending sophisticated retail with gourmet food courts and panoramic city views.

Beyond the glitz of major shopping streets, Seoul’s traditional markets offer another side to the city’s retail culture. Places such as Namdaemun and Dongdaemun markets feature endless maze-like alleys filled with everything from affordable clothing and souvenirs to unique Korean handicrafts, textiles, and household goods. These markets allow tourists to haggle, sample local snacks, and interact with friendly vendors, providing a truly authentic shopping adventure. Specialty shops in neighborhoods like Insadong focus on art, antiques, and traditional ceramics, making them ideal spots for finding distinctive gifts or keepsakes. Whether searching for high fashion, street food, or one-of-a-kind artisan pieces, Australian visitors will find Seoul’s shopping scene to be as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.

Galleria

Galleria is renowned for its luxury brand items and is the largest luxury department store in Korea.

Opening hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Address:
343 Apgujeong-ro
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Shinsegae

Korea’s oldest department store was started in the 1930s. Today it is a chain of different style stores.

Opening hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Address:
52-50 Chungmuro 1ga
Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Hyundai

Hyundai Department Store is one of the three largest in the country. With plans to open more stores, it is becoming the best value shopping chain in South Korea

Opening hours: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Address:
456 Apgujeong-dong
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea