A Guide to Thrifting in Seoul
When people think of Seoul, one of the images that pop-up is one of its many shopping districts. Although famous for keeping up with the latest trends in fashion, Seoul is also catching up with the world of resale. We’ve compiled a handy list of some of the thrift stores that are worth checking out plus some helpful tips to get the most out of your shopping.
- Beautiful Store
Our first stop is the Beautiful Store which is also known, unofficially, as the Goodwill of South Korea. The store, which also a nonprofit organization, offers donated clothes and household items at very affordable prices. It then uses some of the revenue to support local social programs and small business in developing countries. Saving money, the planet, and supporting a good cause, who says you can’t do it all? Beautiful Store has four locations throughout Seoul.
- 21, Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu,
- 327, Changgyeonggung-ro, Seongbuk-gu
- 35, Seocho-daero 56-gil, Seocho-gu
- 34, Nambusunhwan-ro 351-gil, Gangnam-gu
Thrifting Tip #1: Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and easy to remove shoes when shopping because trying is a must at thrift stores.
- Vin Prime
Vin Prime’s yellow walls and neatly organized racks of clothes will make sure to lift anyone’s spirit. Although slightly a bit pricier than the thrift stores we are used to in the States, Vin Prime sure has something for everyone whether they’re looking for clothes, accessories, or bags. The best part about this store? It has eight locations in Seoul so no matter what you have planned for the day you can probably find a Vin Prime nearby.
Most popular location:
- 802-40 Yeoksam 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu
Thrifting Tip #2: Go early! Thrift stores usually restock in the morning therefore you’ll get first dibs on new merchandise plus you’ll avoid the afternoon crowds.
- Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, with more than 5,000 shops and 20,000 employees in an area of 42,000 square meters. You’ve probably heard of it because of its popular street food but if you head to the second floor you’ll find an assortment of vintage clothes and accessories. It is worth checking out to find some pretty affordable pieces.
- 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu
Thrifting Tip #3: Don’t forget to check the men’s and kids’ section while you’re at a thrift store. You’ll probably find something that fits, looks cute, and that is totally in style at the moment.
- Page One
Page One is a quirky little vintage store with thoroughly curated items. It has mostly women’s clothes featuring a lot of 80s Japanese style. Its accessories section is quite popular too; you won’t find designer names but there’s a lot of unique bags and earrings to choose from. You don’t have to worry about breaking the bank here because Page One has reasonable prices.
- 67-14 2F Dokmak-ro, Mapo-gu
Thrifting Tip #4: Take your time to go through every rack and every pile. It might seem a little tedious but that’s how you find those little gems that you can’t believe no one else saw before.
That is all we have for now but let us know in the comments below if you’re planning to stop by these stores whenever you’re in Seoul.
Written by Dianelys Fuentes
