💸 Yes, foreigners can reclaim up to 10% VAT on purchases made in stores marked as “TAX Free”.
Key information:
- The minimum purchase amount on a single receipt is 15,000 KRW.
- Receipts and purchased items must be presented when leaving the country – at the VAT refund point at the airport. Although we were not required to show the goods, it's a good idea to have them on hand.
- Refunds can be received in cash in several currencies.
- If you have your passport with you, in some stores (e.g., Olive Young) VAT can be deducted immediately at the checkout.
- If you do not have your passport with you, the cashier will print a special receipt, which you must scan at a kiosk at Incheon airport – before going through security.
- After scanning the receipts, there is a refund point beyond the gates where you will receive cash.
✅ It's worth collecting receipts throughout your trip to not miss out on the opportunity to reclaim the tax!