The after-departure tax refund route described by the Korea Customs Service, what to keep, and what to expect at the airport — plus what to ask shops before you pay.
How it works
Foreign visitors can claim a refund on eligible purchases. The Korea Customs Service describes the after-departure route: have the goods' departure confirmed by customs, then collect the refund at the refund counter in the duty-free area after passing immigration.
Some shops can also handle the refund on the spot. Refund methods and eligibility vary by shop and purchase, so ask the shop before you pay.
What to keep
Keep your passport, the sales certificate and the purchased goods, unopened and unused, until the departure check is done. The Customs Service says the goods must leave Korea within three months of purchase.
- Passport
- Sales certificate for the purchase
- Goods unopened and unused
At the airport
Some airports have self-service kiosks where you enter passport and sales details; if you are selected for inspection you visit the customs team. Allow extra time, as this step comes before the refund counter.
Plan your last shopping day and your airport arrival time with this extra step in mind, and keep your documents where you can reach them quickly.
Questions to ask the shop before you pay
Refund rates, minimum purchase amounts and handling fees differ and can change, so this article does not state them. Ask the shop and check the official page linked below.
- Does this shop handle the refund on the spot, or only after departure?
- Will I receive a sales certificate, and what must I do with it?
- Are all the items in my basket eligible?
Official source and last-checked date
HOLIDAY wrote this article from public official information. It is not an official publication of any government body, and it is not a guarantee that a rule, fee or condition applies to you. Figures vary and change: always check the linked official source before you travel.
Last checked by HOLIDAY: 11 October 2026.
- Korea Customs Service (tax refund information): https://www.customs.go.kr/english/cm/cntnts/cntntsView.do?mi=8035&cntntsId=5504
