Korean Souvenirs: A Complete Guide with Insights from the Souvenir Fair 2024
South Korea is a land of rich traditions, modern innovations, and vibrant pop culture. For travelers, finding the perfect Korean souvenirs is a way to bring a piece of this fascinating country home. With options ranging from handcrafted goods to modern K-Pop memorabilia, Korea offers a souvenir for everyone. A highlight for those seeking unique gifts is the Souvenir Fair 2024, which showcases Korea’s best regional specialties and cultural products. This guide combines general information about Korean souvenirs with specific highlights from the upcoming fair to ensure you leave Korea with meaningful keepsakes.
The Souvenir Fair 2024: What You Need to Know
The Souvenir Fair 2024 is one of the largest exhibitions in Korea, dedicated to promoting the country’s diverse range of souvenirs. Scheduled to take place at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) in Seoul, the event promises a deep dive into Korean culture and craftsmanship. If you are interested in One day beauty class with K-beauty products, see here.
Event Details:
- Dates: November 22–23, 2024
- Venue: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul
- Participating Businesses: Over 120 businesses with 106 booths
- Admission: Free
- Key Focus: Local specialties, handmade crafts, modern merchandise
- Contact: +82-70-8804-3639 (Korean only)
- Instgram: @kor.souvenir
The fair offers a curated collection of Korea’s finest souvenirs, giving visitors an opportunity to interact directly with artisans and discover the stories behind their products.
If you are looking for Korean Souvenirs shops
Top Categories of Korean Souvenirs, Where to buy in Seoul.
When shopping for Korean souvenirs, the options are endless. From traditional handicrafts to modern beauty products, here are the must-buy categories:
1. Traditional Korean Souvenirs
Hanbok-Inspired Accessories
The hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire, is celebrated for its vibrant colors and elegant designs. While a full hanbok might not be practical as a souvenir, smaller items like bookmarks, hairpins, and miniature hanbok figures are perfect keepsakes.
Hahoetal (Traditional Masks)
Originating from the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Hahoetal masks are a symbol of Korea’s heritage. Traditionally used in performances and rituals, these wooden masks are beautifully painted and often used as wall art or talismans for good fortune.
Korean Celadon Pottery
Renowned for its jade-like finish, celadon pottery is one of Korea’s most iconic crafts. Items like tea sets, bowls, and vases are both functional and artistic. The Souvenir Fair will feature celadon pieces from master artisans.
Korean Paper Fans (Buchae)
Buchae, or Korean paper fans, are lightweight and adorned with traditional paintings or calligraphy. These fans make for artistic yet practical gifts, especially during the summer months.
2. Culinary Souvenirs
Korean Seaweed (Gim)
Gim is a staple in Korean cuisine. Dried, roasted, and often seasoned with sesame oil, it’s a healthy and tasty snack. It’s also easy to transport, making it one of the most popular Korean souvenirs.
Traditional Korean Tea
For tea lovers, Korean varieties like green tea from Boseong, omija-cha (five-flavor tea), and yuzu tea are must-haves. Packaged elegantly, these teas offer both a taste of Korea and numerous health benefits.
Korean Snacks
Snacks like Honey Butter Chips, Choco Pie, and Pepero are a hit among all age groups. These treats are readily available in supermarkets and are perfect for gifting.
3. Korean Beauty Products
Sheet Masks
Korean sheet masks are a global phenomenon, offering hydration, brightening, and anti-aging benefits. Brands like Mediheal and Innisfree are favorites among beauty enthusiasts.
Cushion Compacts
A game-changer in the beauty world, Korean cushion compacts combine foundation and sunscreen in a travel-friendly package. Look for popular brands like Laneige, Sulwhasoo, and Etude House.
Skincare Sets
Korean skincare routines are legendary, and gifting a skincare set from brands like COSRX or The Face Shop ensures a luxurious experience.
Lip Tints
Known for their long-lasting and natural look, Korean lip tints are a must-have for makeup lovers. Brands like Peripera and Rom&nd offer vibrant shades.
4. Modern and Pop Culture Souvenirs
K-Pop Merchandise
For K-Pop fans, items like albums, light sticks, and posters are dream souvenirs. Stores in areas like Gangnam and Myeongdong are treasure troves of official merchandise.
K-Drama Memorabilia
Popular dramas like Crash Landing on You and Goblin have inspired a range of souvenirs, including mugs, T-shirts, and even replicas of items featured in the shows.
Line Friends and Kakao Friends Goods
Characters from LINE and KakaoTalk are beloved by both children and adults. Plush toys, stationery, and home goods featuring characters like Brown, Apeach, and Ryan are available at branded stores.
5. Fashion and Accessories
Korean Jewelry
Minimalist and elegant, Korean jewelry includes earrings, necklaces, and bracelets that make stylish gifts. Boutique stores in Hongdae and Garosu-gil are popular shopping destinations.
Silk Scarves and Pouches
Traditional silk scarves and pouches feature vibrant patterns and are lightweight, making them ideal for gifts.
Korean Socks
Known for their quirky and fun designs, Korean socks feature everything from cartoons to famous landmarks. They’re affordable and great for all ages.
6. Home Decor and Lifestyle
Handmade Soaps
Natural handmade soaps infused with Korean ingredients like green tea, charcoal, and ginseng are perfect for skincare enthusiasts.
Korean Candles
Inspired by Korean nature and culture, scented candles are beautiful and practical gifts. Some come in packaging designed to resemble traditional hanok houses.
Banchan Storage Sets
Inspired by Korean side dishes, these storage containers are stylish and functional, ideal for anyone who loves to cook.
7. Books and Stationery
Korean Cookbooks
Bring home a taste of Korea with cookbooks featuring recipes for traditional dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap.
Calligraphy Kits
Experience Korea’s artistic tradition with a calligraphy kit, complete with brushes, ink, and paper.
Stationery
Korea’s stationery is famous for its high-quality and cute designs. Brands like Artbox offer everything from notebooks to pens.
Where to Buy Korean Souvenirs in Seoul: Locations and Details
If you’re exploring Seoul for Korean souvenirs, you’ll want to visit these prime locations offering everything from traditional crafts to modern merchandise. Here’s a detailed guide to the best souvenir stores and their operating hours, transportation options, and other useful information.
1. Seoul Tourism Plaza
- Location: 1st floor, Samil Building, 85 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: A 419-meter walk from Exit 4 of Jonggak Station (Subway Line 1)
- Operating Hours: 09:00–18:00 (Closed on Korean New Year and Chuseok holidays)
Highlights:
It offers a curated selection of authentic Korean souvenirs, including traditional crafts and cultural items. Perfect for travelers wanting high-quality keepsakes with historical significance.
2. DDP Design Store
- Location: B2, Design Lab, DDP Oullim Square, 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: 50 meters from Exit 1 of Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Subway Lines 2, 4, 5)
- Operating Hours: 10:00–20:00 (Closed on Korean New Year and Chuseok holidays)
Highlights:
Located in the heart of the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, the DDP Design Store is a treasure trove of contemporary Korean designs. Browse items like handcrafted decor, fashion accessories, and unique household goods.
3. Myeongdong Tourist Information Center
- Location: 1st floor, Hana Financial Group Myeongdong office building annex, 66 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: A 211-meter walk from Exit 5 of Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Subway Line 2)
- Operating Hours: 09:00–18:00 (Closed on Korean New Year, Chuseok holidays, and Sundays)
Highlights:
Nestled in the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong, this center combines tourist information with a selection of Korean souvenirs. From skincare products to cultural trinkets, you’ll find something for everyone.
4. Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
- Location: 1st floor, Sejong Grand Theater, Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, 175 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Sejong Lounge)
- Transportation: A 130-meter walk from Exit 2 of Gwanghwamun Station (Subway Line 5)
- Operating Hours: 10:00–20:00 (Closed every Monday)
Highlights:
Located in a cultural landmark, this store offers artsy Korean souvenirs, including books, crafts, and memorabilia connected to Korean performing arts. It’s a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
5. Musinsa Standard Myeongdong Store
- Location:1st to 3rd floors, N Building, Myeong-dong, 90 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Transportation: A 60-meter walk from Exit 6 of Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Subway Line 2)
- Operating Hours: 11:00–21:00
Highlights:
Musinsa is Korea’s leading online fashion retailer, and its Myeongdong store offers minimalist and stylish clothing and accessories. It’s a great place to shop for modern Korean fashion souvenirs.
General Tips for Buying Korean Souvenirs
- Plan Ahead: Make a list of the items you’re interested in, as each location offers unique products.
- Local Currency: Most stores accept credit cards, but it’s helpful to carry Korean won for smaller purchases.
- Check Operating Hours: Ensure the store is open before you visit, especially during Korean holidays.
These locations cater to all your Korean souvenirs needs, from traditional keepsakes to modern designs. Whether you’re in Seoul for a short trip or a longer stay, these stores offer a rich shopping experience!
