Korea Tax Refund Calculator
Estimate how much VAT refund you can receive on your shopping in Korea.
Korean VAT
10%
Net refund rate
≈7%
Min. per receipt
₩15,000
Estimated Refund by Purchase Amount
| Purchase (KRW) | VAT included | Est. refund | After refund |
|---|---|---|---|
| ₩30,000 | ₩3,000 | ₩1,650 | ₩28,350 |
| ₩50,000 | ₩5,000 | ₩2,750 | ₩47,250 |
| ₩100,000 | ₩10,000 | ₩5,500 | ₩94,500 |
| ₩200,000 | ₩20,000 | ₩11,000 | ₩189,000 |
| ₩500,000 | ₩50,000 | ₩27,500 | ₩472,500 |
* Estimate after deducting ~1.5% agent fee. Actual amounts may vary by store and refund method.
How to Claim Your Refund
Instant Refund
Instant Refund partner storesImmediate VAT deduction at point of sale when paying with a registered foreign card. No airport stamping required.
Airport Refund Counter
ICN/PUS airport customs → refund counterGet customs stamp at ICN/PUS airport on departure, then collect cash at a Global Blue or Planet Tax Free counter.
Mail Refund
Korean customs → mailMail sealed envelopes stamped at Seoul Customs. Refund to card, processing takes 1–2 months.
Airport Refund Steps
- 1
Ask the store for a Tax Refund Receipt when you purchase
- 2
Visit the Customs desk at the airport on departure day — before checking in luggage
- 3
Show your passport, receipts, and goods to the customs officer — get a stamp
- 4
Collect your refund at a Global Blue or Planet Tax Free counter — cash or card
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can claim a tax refund in Korea?
Foreign tourists who have stayed in Korea for less than 6 months (or Korean nationals living abroad for more than 2 years) are eligible for the VAT refund on qualifying purchases.
What is the minimum purchase amount for a tax refund?
Each receipt must show a purchase of at least KRW 15,000 (excluding VAT) at a single store to qualify. Receipts from the same store on different days cannot be combined.
Which stores offer tax refunds?
Stores displaying 'Tax Free' or 'Tax Refund' signs are registered refund partners. These include most department stores (Lotte, Shinsegae, Hyundai), Dongdaemun shopping malls, and many boutiques in Myeongdong and Insadong.
Can I get a refund on cosmetics and skincare?
Yes. Skincare, cosmetics, clothing, electronics, and souvenirs all qualify as long as they are goods (not services). Food and beverages are generally not eligible.
How much can I actually get back?
The Korean VAT rate is 10%. After deducting the refund agent's service fee (around 1.5–3%), you typically receive approximately 7–8.5% of the purchase price back. Use our calculator above for an estimate.