Forget expensive souvenirs! Daiso Korea is your go-to for everyday essentials & surprising finds – all at rock-bottom prices. Kitchen gadgets, travel must-haves, & home goodies – Daiso has it all!
If you’ve even been around in the downtown of Korea, you must have seen the brightly lit red and white board with “DAISO” on it. Daiso is essentially the ‘dollar-shop’ version of a store owned by a Japanese franchise. There are branches of the store everywhere in the world – except in Korea. Daiso Korea separated from the Japanese franchise completely in 2023 and have become totally Korean. Even before that, they were designing, making, and selling original products since 2014.
Daiso Korea
Daiso Korea was a local’s go-to store for a cost-efficient shopping. The store carries simple everyday things and supplies. But, now, more often than not, foreigners and tourists are flocking to this store. Let’s find out what has created such a buzz among international travelers.
Why Daiso Korea is becoming popular among tourists?
#1 One stop shop for everything – and that literally means everything
This massive store (they have about 1,500 locations around Korea!) is basically a treasure trove of everyday essentials. Daiso has everything from organizers and cleaning supplies to kitchen gadgets and pet products, all at super affordable prices. They even have surprising finds like phone chargers, travel adapters, and sporting goods! Basically, if you need something for your home, garden, or travels, Daiso is a great place to start browsing. Think of it as a one-stop shop for all those little things that make life easier. Plus, with so many stores, there’s bound to be a Daiso near you wherever you are in Korea.
#2 Cheaper
While the inflation is rising in South Korea, Daiso Korea still has everything under 5,000 won (approx. USD 4.00). If you aren’t aware, the stores have a maximum price cap feature (set at 5,000 won) irrespective of the product.
As it is, there is a whole range of products in the 1,000 – 3,000 won range. There is no way it doesn’t attracts tourists! Especially when they are looking for local Korean souvenirs to take back home in bulk. Items like candies and snacks are available in same pack size as other convenience stores but the prices are much lesser, around 1,000 – 2,000 won. This gives you the best way to not only try local treats without breaking the bank, but also take little tokens for your friends and family back home.
#3 Amazing collection of seasonal and life hacks products
The store is busy year around as they constantly release new seasonal products. The new products are designed in such a way that they match the theme and tone of the season. And, to attract tourists and locals, they are displayed right in the front! You’ll find attention grabbing displays near the main entrance of Daiso Korea stores.
In addition to seasonal updates, Daiso Korea also has a great selection of life hack items. These are easy to use and certainly creative solutions to everyday problems. You can check out their latest and trending products on social media!
#4 Official collab products with other franchises & brands
Daiso Korea is also into collabs with character franchise such as Disney. You will find a whole range of Disney merchandise that’s original and official. These collectible are not only adorable but also light on your pocket. The best part, these products are practical in terms of use and not just something to showcase on your shelf.
#5 Affordable K-beauty and K-skincare
Just like all the other products in Daiso Korea, K-beauty and skincare products are priced at 5,000 won or less. While you may wonder about the authenticity and efficacy of these K-beauty products, they do not lack anything in quality. The pack sizes and volumes may be smaller though.
Daiso Korea has a collaboration with Kolmar Korea and Cosmax, Korea’s major cosmetics manufacturers. The beauty products in Daiso are quite popular among younger generation and those with picky wallets. The sheet masks are one of the most popular bestseller in the store as it just costs 1,000 won. You will also find displays from other K-beauty brands such as CLIO, Nature Republic, A’peiu and others. The beauty and skincare products are also updated regularly. This along with affordable pricing makes Daiso Korea a hub for shopping K-beauty products.
So, if you are gift shopping for souvenirs, Daiso Korea can be a great option. Next time whenever you see the red and white Daiso sign, do check out the store, you might something amazing as a souvenir from Korea.
Tips for Shopping At Daiso Korea
Don’t be shy – ask for help
Most of the Daiso stores are large and finding one particular item can be overwhelming. It will also take a lot of time if you start walking up and down all the aisles! So, to save up your time and energy, it’s best to ask for assistance. You can either tell the name or show them a picture of what you want.
Scan the QR code, not barcode
If you are planning to do a self-checkout at any of the stores, make sure you scan the QR code label on the products. Barcodes are not for billing. There might be some exceptions but most work with QR codes. And if you can’t find one, you can ask for assistance.
Famous Daiso Korea stores you must visit
Daiso Gangnam Express Bus Terminal Branch, the Largest Daiso Store
Daiso Gangnam Express Bus Terminal Branch is one of the most convenient Daiso store you can visit in Korea. It is inside the terminal building and you can visit the store while you are waiting for your intercity transfer bus in Seoul. It is the biggest Daiso store in Korea and you can spend hours inside without realizing the time. So, if you are waiting for your bus, do keep a track of time. The store also has multilingual self-checkout kiosks. Make sure you are carrying your passport so that you can claim tax refund.
Daiso Myeongdong Station Branch, a 12-story Mega Daiso
The Daiso Myeongdong Station Branch is also another one that you must check out. The store has 12 floors full of amazing and affordable products that you will want to have all! There is a floor guide available in English, Japanese, and Chinese to make your movement easier. Also, comes with self-checkout kiosks and tax refund options.
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