Getting glasses made in Korea

Yes. When lenses are in stock, many Korean optical shops can complete an eye test and finished glasses the same day, sometimes in about an hour. That is why some visitors get glasses made during their trip. High prescriptions or special lenses may need to be ordered and take a few days, so ask in advance.

Yes. In Korea, licensed opticians at optical shops perform vision tests for making glasses, and the results determine your lens prescription. Diagnosing eye diseases, however, is the role of an ophthalmologist, so if something seems wrong with your eyes, see an eye doctor first.

Usually not for adults. In Korea, opticians typically measure your vision at the shop and make glasses from that. Glasses for children aged six and under, however, must follow a doctor's prescription. Bringing your existing prescription or old glasses helps, and if your vision has changed a lot, they may recommend seeing an ophthalmologist.

The area around Namdaemun Market is known for its large number of optical shops and is popular with foreign travelers. Having many shops close together makes comparison easy. Beyond that, optical shops are common in busy districts and malls all over Seoul.

You usually choose the frame and lenses separately, so the total varies a lot with your choices. Lenses in particular differ in price depending on thickness, coatings and features. Always confirm the final combined price for frames and lenses before you order.

Options include high-index lenses that stay thin for strong prescriptions, anti-reflective coatings, blue-light filtering lenses and photochromic lenses that darken in sunlight. Tell the optician what you need, and they will suggest suitable lenses. More features can mean a longer wait for your glasses.

Yes, possibly. Very strong prescriptions or significant astigmatism may require lenses the shop does not stock, which means ordering them and waiting a few days. On a short trip, get your glasses ordered soon after you arrive, and ask whether the shop can deliver to your hotel.

Yes. Korean optical shops can make progressive lenses, but they require precise measurements and are often custom-ordered, so they can take longer than standard glasses. If you are new to progressives, there is an adjustment period, so listen carefully to the optician's advice.

In Korea, contact lenses are mainly sold through opticians at optical shops. Online sales of contact lenses are reportedly restricted by law in Korea. Follow the instructions for wear and replacement, and if your eyes hurt or turn red, stop wearing them and see an eye doctor.

Colored lenses are also regulated as medical devices, so buying them from an optical shop is the safe choice. Not following the right fit and wearing time can harm your eyes. If you feel discomfort or pain, remove them immediately and see an ophthalmologist.

Yes. Optical shops can fit prescription lenses into sunglass frames or make tinted prescription lenses. Check both UV protection and the tint level. Very dark lenses may not suit driving in low light or nighttime use, so mention how you plan to wear them.

Yes. Many optical shops will fit new lenses into frames you bring in. If the frames are old or damaged, they may warn you about the risk of breakage during the work. Whether it is possible depends on the condition of the frames, so ask the shop.

Some shops in areas popular with foreign visitors can assist in English or other languages. Eye tests use charts with pictures or numbers, so they work reasonably well even with limited language. A translation app helps ensure accurate communication about lenses and costs.

At an optical shop, opticians test your vision and fit glasses and contact lenses. An eye clinic (angwa) is a medical practice where doctors diagnose and treat eye diseases. For sudden vision loss, pain or redness, go to an eye clinic rather than an optical shop, and call 119 in an emergency.

Most optical shops adjust nose pads and temple angles, and the shop where you bought them often does this free of charge. Wear your new glasses for a few days, and go back if they feel uncomfortable. A final adjustment before you fly home is a good idea.

If the optical shop participates in the tax-free program, you may be able to get a refund when you meet the conditions. Not every shop participates, though, and handling can vary by store. Ask whether tax-free is available before you pay, and bring your passport.

Bring your current glasses and any recent prescription you have. This helps the optician compare with your existing lenses and make a pair that feels comfortable. If you are hoping for a tax refund, bring your passport as well. Notes on your contact lens details help too.

Because children's vision changes quickly and eye conditions can go unnoticed, an eye clinic exam is generally recommended before their first pair. You can then take the doctor's prescription to an optical shop. Choose light, durable frames that fit your child's face well.

Free repairs or guarantees from the shop are often practical only while you are in Korea. After returning home, you may need to use a local optician, so check everything carefully before you leave. Asking for a card or receipt listing your lens details will help later.

To order glasses, say "angyeong matchugo sipeoyo" (I'd like to get glasses made). For an eye test, say "siryeok geomsa hae juseyo." To ask when they will be ready, say "eonje chajeul su isseoyo?" For thinner lenses, say "yalbeun renjeuro hae juseyo."