🛍️ Mastery: How to Get the Best Discounts at Olive Young (2026 Guide)

Locals never pay full price at Olive Young. Master the art of 'Deuk-tem' with Teacher Hoon's insider hacks.

📅 Updated: December 22, 2025 | ✍️ Expert Checked by Instructor SEUNG HOON Baek

Olive Young K-beauty store interior showcasing latest skincare trends

🏬 The Sephora of South Korea

Olive Young is not just a drugstore; it's the heart of K-beauty. With over 1,300 stores nationwide, it accounts for nearly 70% of Korea's health and beauty market. Whether you are looking for viral sunscreens, high-performance serums, or guilt-free snacks, knowing when and how to shop can save you up to 70% compared to airport duty-free prices.

🗓️ The Golden Sale Calendar (Must-Know)

If you want to shop like a pro, you must align your trip with these major events.

🔥 Ol-young Sale (올영세일): The biggest event occurring 4 times a year (March, June, September, and December). Discounts hit up to 70%.
📅 Olive Day: Every 25th to 27th of the month. Extra points and exclusive discounts for members.
📲 First-Purchase App Coupons: Download the app to unlock a 10-20% welcome coupon that can often be stacked with existing sales.

🌍 Tourist Perks: Instant Tax Refunds

Korea offers one of the most convenient tax refund systems in Asia. At most "Global" Olive Young branches (Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam), you don't have to wait for the airport.

Minimum Purchase: 30,000 KRW (approx. $22 USD).
Requirements: You must have your physical passport or a clear digital copy.
Instant Refund: The tax is deducted directly at the cashier, so you only pay the net amount!

🗣️ Phrases to Use at the Counter

Boost your confidence and ensure you get your discounts with these phrases.

🔹 "이거 세일 품목인가요?"
(I-geo seil pum-mok-in-ga-yo? / Is this an item on sale?)
🔹 "텍스 리펀(면세) 되나요?"
(Tex ri-peon doe-na-yo? / Is tax refund available?)
🔹 "득템했어요!"
(Deuk-tem-hae-sseo-yo! / I got a great deal! - *Local Slang*)

👩‍🏫 Teacher Hoon's Pro Shopping Tips

1. Look for "1+1" or "Special Set": Korean brands love bundles. Often, a 1+1 set is the same price as a single bottle.

2. Check the "Clearance" Section: Usually located near the back or bottom shelves, you can find items with 6 months left on the expiry for 80% off. Perfect for body wash or hand cream!

3. The App is King: Even if you shop in-person, check the app first. Sometimes there are "App-only" freebies given with certain purchases.

📘 Plan Your Full Seoul Trip

Shopping is better when you're prepared. Check out our other essential Korea guides:

🚀 Shop Like a Local, Speak Like a Local

Want to practice your shopping phrases or need a 1:1 consultation for your Korea travel itinerary? Let's meet on italki. I'll make sure you're ready for the 2026 Ol-young Sale!

Learn Shopping Korean with Hoon

Did you 'Deuk-tem' today? Leave a comment with your favorite Olive Young find!

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