Introduction
If you are visiting Korea as a tourist, you may be eligible for a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on your purchases.
Many visitors confuse this with income tax refunds for foreign residents, but these are completely different systems.
This guide explains Korea tax refund for tourists, including VAT refund eligibility, refund methods, and airport procedures in 2026.
What Is VAT Refund in Korea?
VAT (Value Added Tax) in Korea is typically 10% and is included in the price of most goods.
Tourists can receive a partial refund of this tax when purchasing eligible items from approved stores.
The Korea tax refund for tourists is mainly based on VAT refunds for short-term visitors.
Who Is Eligible for VAT Refund?
You are eligible if:
- You are a non-resident tourist
- You do not hold a Korean residence card
- You plan to leave Korea within 3 months of purchase
You are not eligible if:
- You live and work in Korea
- You hold an Alien Registration Card
What Purchases Qualify for VAT Refund?
- Purchases from Tax Free / Tax Refund stores
- Minimum purchase amount (usually KRW 15,000 per receipt)
- Items must be unused when leaving Korea
Where Can You Get Your VAT Refund?
Tourists can receive VAT refunds in three ways:
1. Immediate Refund at Stores
- Show your passport at checkout
- VAT is deducted instantly
2. Downtown Refund Kiosks
- Available in popular areas like Myeongdong and Gangnam
- Refund before going to the airport
3. Airport Refund (Most Common)
- Customs check
- Self-service kiosks
- Cash or card refund
How to Get VAT Refund at the Airport
- Prepare your passport and receipts
- Visit the customs desk if required
- Use the refund kiosk
- Receive cash or card refund
How Much VAT Can You Get Back?
- Refund amount is not the full 10%
- Service fees apply
- Usually 5–7% of purchase value
👉 Convert your refund amount using our Exchange Rate Calculator
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
- Shopping at non-approved stores
- Forgetting receipts
- Trying to claim refunds after departure
- Confusing VAT refund with income tax refund
Tourists vs Foreign Residents: Why Refund Rules Are Different
Tourists receive VAT refunds on shopping.
Foreign residents may receive income tax refunds through the Korean tax system.
👉 You can also estimate your refund amount using our simple VAT refund calculator.
👉 Read our guide for foreign residents here
Korea Tax Refund for Tourists: How VAT Refund Works
The Korea tax refund for tourists is mainly based on VAT refunds for short-term visitors.