Seoul(Gimpo)

Consumption activities are subject to a 10% value added tax (VAT). The minimum duty-free purchase amount was lowered to W15,000 in 2024. Foreign tourists can receive a tax refund by completing a procedure at a store with a TAX FREE symbol. You cannot get a refund for food and drink costs at restaurants that are not eligible for a tax refund. Note that some places are only open in a limited capacity or are closed entirely due to the pandemic or other reasons, and it is best to check before going.

Tipping is not required. A service charge is added in advance to expenses such as meal charges at upscale establishments and room fees at hotels. It is acceptable to tip when receiving a special or excessive service.

For Blu-ray, both Japan and South Korea are region A, so Blu-rays bought in South Korea can be played normally in Japan.

South Korean national holidays include those according to the Gregorian calendar and those according to the lunar calendar. Dates of holidays according to the lunar calendar change each year. There are three: the Korean New Year (lunar New Year), Buddha's birthday, and Chuseok (similar to the Bon festival of the lunar calendar in Japan).

Mon. to Fri. 9:00 to 16:00, closed on Sat., Sun., holidays. Money can be exchanged during business hours.

Mon. to Fri. 9:00 to 18:00 (Banking services open to 16:30), closed Sat., Sun., holidays. Government offices are also closed on Saturdays.

Generally open around 10:00 to 20:00. Many buildings devoted to fashion-related shops are open until very late at night. Many shops close on the Chinese New Year and on Chuseok.

Generally open around 10:00 to 23:00. Many shops close on the Chinese New Year and on Chuseok.

It is prohibited to sell tobacco or alcohol or allow entry into casinos to persons under 19 years of age.