[edit] Shopping 쇼핑
You may purchase goods in very diverse ranges of places in Korea. From traditional markets (jaerae sijang 재래시장) that are open every five days to department stores (baekhwajeom 백화점, 百貨店) and large-scale discount stores (daehyeong harin maejang 대형할인매장), each has unique characteristics. You need to know what is sold where if you want to purchase quality products at good prices. There will be people who speak English at large department stores in major cities and at shopping areas in Seoul such as Itaewon, Myeongdong, and the markets of Namdaemun and Dongdaemun.
Most department stores are open from 10:30 to 19:30, while markets and smaller stores will usually be open for business from 10:00 to 21:00. There are some establishments that are open from early in the morning to very late at night every day of the year. Department stores, discount stores, convenience stores (pyeonuijeom 편의점), and neighborhood general stores will have set prices, but many places will not, such as in traditional markets.
In such places you may be able to receive a lower price after bargaining. Particularly in traditional
markets, it is a good idea to ask before purchasing whether the item can be returned or exchanged if necessary at a later time.
[edit] Department & Discount Stores 백화점과 대형할인 매장
In large cities there are department stores and large discount stores. Both have set prices. During sale periods these stores will advertise their sales in promotional material inserted into newspapers that are delivered as regular house subscriptions. There is often considerable traffic congestion near department stores during sale periods.
[edit] Convenience & Neighborhood General Stores 편의점과 슈퍼
Both of these may easily be seen in residential areas. They sell mainly practical necessities and have set prices. Some places are open for business 24 hours a day.
[edit] Traditional Markets 재래시장
In small provincial towns, there are still one-day open markets held every five days. Here you may see things traditionally Korean. These markets come alive with life. There are traditional Korean products and local foods. You may bargain over prices. If you know what you're doing and say the right things, you
may indeed find that you can purchase what you want for less than the initial price.
[edit] Discount Stores 할인전문점
Alcoholic beverages, cameras, glasses, clothing, food, and other products are offered at cheap prices by an increasing number of stores specializing in discounted items. Because they are specialized, you may choose from a variety of choices that meet your taste. Prices are low. It's a good idea to learn what kind of discount stores are in your area.
[edit] Local Government Markets 시•군 알뜰매장
Local women's associations (bunyeohoe 부녀회) or provincial city governments often organize markets selling used items. You will be surprised what quality products you can find at inexpensive prices. See the newsletter published by your local government to find out about the time and location. There may be other
sources of used items in your area.
[edit] Classified Advertisement Papers 생활정보신문
In downtown areas there will be saenghwal jeongbo sinmun (생활정보신문), or "living information publications" available for passersby. A diverse range of items, everything from automobiles to musical instruments, are advertised in these publications for surprisingly cheap prices. Because the products are used, you should both make sure the item is what it was advertised to be and also be sure to bargain. These publications are also a convenient way to sell the things you don't want to take with you when you leave Korea.
