🎯 What Is Korea's VAT Tax Refund for Tourists?
South Korea offers a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund program for foreign tourists. When you shop at registered tax-free stores and spend at least ₩15,000 in a single transaction, you are entitled to claim back 6–9% of your purchase price before leaving the country.
The refund is available in cash (Korean Won, US Dollars, Japanese Yen, or Chinese Yuan) at city kiosks in shopping areas like Myeongdong, or at Incheon Airport kiosks on your departure day. This guide covers everything you need to know to claim every won you're owed.
As someone who has studied Korea's refund system in detail, I've seen many tourists leave Korea without claiming refunds they were entitled to — simply because they didn't know the process. That's exactly why I built this site: to make Korea's tax refund system simple, fast, and accessible for every tourist.
🧮 How Much Will You Get Back?
Use our free calculator to estimate your VAT refund instantly. Enter your purchase amount in Korean Won and see the refund in your home currency.
Open Free Calculator →⚡ Korea Tax Refund — Quick Facts for 2026
💰 Refund Rate
6–9% of your purchase price, depending on the amount. The more you spend, the higher the percentage you get back.
🛒 Minimum Purchase
₩15,000 per store per transaction. Purchases below this amount do not qualify for a refund.
✅ What Qualifies
Clothing, cosmetics, electronics, bags, shoes, accessories, and most retail goods at registered stores.
❌ What Doesn't Qualify
Food, beverages, alcohol, tobacco, accommodation, transport, and services of any kind.
📍 Where to Claim
City kiosks in Myeongdong and major shopping areas for same-day cash, or Incheon Airport kiosks before departure.
🪪 Who Is Eligible
Foreign tourists on a short-term visa (C-3). Long-term residents on F, D, or E visas are generally not eligible.