Fitting rooms, exchanges and refunds

In most stores, yes, but it is natural to ask first: "ibeo bwado dwaeyo?" (May I try this on?). Staff will show you to the fitting room or tell you which items can be tried. Small market stalls may have no fitting room or may limit trying on, so check before you pick things out.

It varies, but many stores limit how many pieces you can take in at once. Some check the number of items at the entrance and hand you a numbered tag. If you want to try a lot, go in batches or ask the staff how they prefer to handle it.

Some stores hand out a thin face cover to keep makeup from staining tops as you pull them over your head. Put it over your face, try the garment on, then remove it. Makeup marks can make an item unsellable, so using one when asked is simple courtesy.

Without a fitting room, you can hold items up against yourself or slip them on over your outer layer in front of a mirror. Knowing the measurements of clothes you own lets you ask staff for the item's measurements and compare. Ask about exchanges before you buy.

Exchange only (gyohwanman ganeung) means you can swap for another size or item, but you cannot get your money back. A sign saying no refunds (hwanbul bulga) means much the same. If you see these notices, check the size and condition especially carefully before buying.

There is no single rule, as the period differs by store and brand. Some accept exchanges or refunds within a few days, others within several weeks. Ask staff before buying and check any policy printed on the receipt, especially if you leave Korea soon.

Usually you need the receipt, the item with its tags still attached and the original packaging. If you paid by card, bring that same card, since refunds are typically processed as a card cancellation. If you claimed a tax refund, bring the related paperwork as well. Any free gift received with the purchase may also need to be returned.

Card refunds are usually processed as a cancellation, so the money goes back to the original card. If the payment has not yet been settled, the cancellation may show immediately; otherwise it can take several business days or longer, depending on your card issuer. Keep the refund receipt, and contact your card company if it takes too long.

Many stores restrict exchanges or refunds on sale items. Final clearance goods and items from discount bins in particular may not be returnable. Ask about the exchange and refund conditions for sale items before you pay, so there are no surprises later.

Sometimes, but the tax refund already given has to be settled, which can make the process complicated. If you received an immediate refund at the store, staff will explain how they handle it. Confirm the size carefully before buying, and contact the store promptly if you need a return.

Some brands let you exchange at another branch, but depending on how the store is operated, you may only be able to do it where you bought it. Department store counters, regular shops and outlet stores can each follow different rules. Contact the branch in advance to confirm.

In most cases, items that show signs of wear or washing will not be accepted. Removed tags or a lingering smell of perfume or makeup can also be a problem. If you are unsure, try it on at your hotel with the tags still attached before deciding.

If you find a defect such as split seams, stains or holes, contact the store promptly with your receipt. Defective items are usually exchanged or refunded, though the exact handling varies by store. If you cannot resolve it, you can contact Korea's consumer counseling center at 1372.

There may be no time to go back for an exchange, so it is best to do major shopping early in your trip. Once you have left Korea, exchanges and refunds are usually impractical. If you shop on your last day, always try items on in the store before paying.

It depends on the brand. Some let you exchange online orders in store, while many manage online and in-store stock and policies separately. Check the exchange policy on the website where you ordered before heading to a shop, so you do not make a wasted trip.

For hygiene reasons, many stores limit trying on and returns for underwear, swimwear and earrings. Some shops allow you to try swimwear over your own underwear. Measure yourself accurately and check the store's policy before you buy. Rules are often posted near the counter.

For an exchange, say "gyohwanhago sipeoyo" (I'd like to exchange this). For a refund, ask "hwanbul dwaeyo?" (Can I get a refund?) or "hwanbulhago sipeoyo." Adding "saijeuga an majayo" (the size doesn't fit) helps staff understand, and showing your receipt makes everything easier.

If you cannot sort it out with the store, call the 1330 tourist helpline for interpretation and guidance. Consumer complaints are handled by the consumer counseling center at 1372. Keeping your receipt, photos of the item and notes on what was said will help.

Do not leave tried-on clothes inside out; hang them back up or fold them roughly and hand them to staff. Rather than putting items back on the racks yourself, simply pass them to an employee. Not lingering too long in the fitting room is also considerate to other shoppers.

Market stalls may allow exchanges but not refunds, or sometimes neither. Some do not issue receipts, so it is important to remember the shop's name and location. Before buying, ask "gyohwan dwaeyo?" (Can I exchange this?) so you know where you stand.