Get Your Clothes On: Shopping for Style in Korea

By: Jenny Choi | Dec. 05, 2008

 

Karosu Avenue (가로수 길)

 

Located near Sinsa Station (line 3), Karosu is a cute, narrow road filled with boutiques and eateries. While prices are generally on the higher side as it is near Apgujeong, you can still find some budget-friendly stores. Here is where you will find clothes that will last you more than one season. Though more catered towards ladies, there are select spots for the men to retreat to as well. If you need a break, you can relax on one of many patios at the coffee shops, wine bars, or restaurants. It makes a great spot to browse and stroll in the afternoon.

 

Pros: higher quality, good atmosphere
Cons: slightly more expensive, probably won’t carry larger sizes

 

Munjeong and Ori Outlets (문정/오리)

 

If you’re looking for brand names at lower prices, Munjeong (line 8) and Ori (Bundang line - between Ori and Jukjeon station) both have select outlet stores nearby each station. You can find past season styles from brands such as Polo, Lacoste, Guess, and more. There are regular retail stores scattered among the outlets, so don’t expect outlet prices at every location. The best times to go are at the end of each season as that is when the stores will be discounting their merchandise to make room for the anticipated new arrivals. Some stores have sign-up lists to receive texts so you can be notified when items are marked down. As a warning, American brands are already incredibly marked up in Korea, so with the discounts you can expect more to break even, and if you’re lucky save a little bit.

 

Pros: savings
Cons: seasonally based/hit-or-miss

 

Myeong-Dong (명동)

 

Myeong-dong (line 4, exit 6 or 7) is probably one of the best one-stop shops in Korea. There is everything from street vendors selling anything imaginable to designer labels. You can find many western brands such as Gap, Zara, Forever 21, Nine West, North Face, etc. While you are guaranteed better quality, look out for mark-ups on prices. Do your homework online as sometimes it can be double what you would pay back home. There are of course the usual Korean-style boutiques. Though bargaining is not as prevalent, there is a Migliore similar to the one in Dongdaemun, though a little smaller. It can get incredibly hectic with so many stores and restaurants so if you plan on going, prepare yourself.

 

Pros: good for men and women, wide variety of styles and prices
Cons: busy, busy, busy!

 

Dongdaemun (동대문)

 

If you’re looking for cheap clothes, Dongdaemun (exit Dongdaemun Stadium, lines 2,4, and 5) is the place to go. The streets are lined with accessory and food stalls, and the massive 8+ story buildings are jam-packed with clothes just waiting to be bought. The two most prominent shopping centers are Migliore and Doota. Though mostly catering to girls, there are a few levels for the boys to roam. The best time to go is late night and/or during rain. Midnight shopping and inclement weather has fewer shoppers so therefore, the salespeople are more likely to bargain with you (see “Tips for Getting the Best Price”). On weekends, the place is a madhouse and should really be avoided if possible. Remember that what you pay is what you get, so if your clothes last beyond one season, consider yourself lucky. While some vendors will let you try the clothes on, others will not (see “What to Wear When Shopping”).

 

Pros: cheap, large variety
Cons: busy, lower quality

 

Ski and Skateboard Shops

 

If you’re looking for your familiar American brands for all your skating and skiing needs, go to Hakdong Station (학동약 line 7). When you get to the station, take one of the exits that will have you walking towards Yeoksam Station (역삼역). Both sides of the streets are lined with stores with all your favorite gear. Spotted were brands such as DC, Burton, Quiksilver, etc. No words on prices yet, but you can probably expect to pay a little more than back home since they are foreign brands here.

 

Check out: Jenny Choi's Tips for Getting the Best Price