If you’re heading to Korea, Olive Young is the one stop you absolutely cannot skip. It’s everywhere — like a convenience store on every corner — and it’s basically the holy grail of Korea cosmetic shopping.
First-timers usually walk in and just… freeze. So many products, so little time. Don’t worry — we’ve done the homework for you.
What Makes Olive Young the Best Korea Cosmetic Shopping Experience?
Olive Young isn’t just a drugstore. It’s where you can compare indie K-beauty brands side by side with cult skincare staples — all under one roof.
- 1,300+ stores nationwide (flagship stores in Myeongdong, Hongdae & Gangnam)
- Year-round sales — 1+1 and 2+1 deals are super common
- English-friendly staff at major tourist locations
Pro tip: Download the Olive Young app before you go. The Myeongdong flagship offers special discount coupons for international visitors — don’t sleep on this!
Olive Young Must Buy List: Top 5 Products
1. Dr. G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream
If you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, you’ve probably already seen this on your FYP. It’s basically the OG Korean pharmacy cream that blew up globally.
- Soothes redness + controls breakouts at the same time
- Iconic green tube — you’ll spot it immediately on the shelf
- Price: around ₩13,000–15,000 (~$10 USD)
Great for oily, sensitive, and combination skin types. Beauty creators have been raving about this one for years — and it lives up to the hype.
2. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream
Ask any tourist “what did you buy at Olive Young?” and this one comes up almost every single time. The word-of-mouth on this is absolutely unreal.
- Birch sap extract — delivers deep, lasting hydration
- Absorbs fast with zero stickiness — perfect for travel skin recovery
- Price: around ₩18,000 (~$13 USD) / 100ml
Works beautifully for dry-to-combination skin. Light, fresh scent that pretty much everyone loves.
3. Mediheal Mask Sheet (N.M.F Aquaring Ampoule Mask)
Sheet masks and Korea go hand in hand — and Mediheal is the classic pick every single time. This is Korea cosmetic shopping 101.
- Buy by the box — way cheaper per sheet than buying individually
- Around ₩700–1,000 per sheet (box of 10)
- Perfect for post-travel skin recovery and as gifts back home
Heads up: Olive Young is cheaper than airport duty-free for these. Don’t wait until the airport!
4. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun (Rice + Probiotics)
This sunscreen has been going absolutely viral in global beauty communities — and for good reason. You can find it on Amazon, but buying it in Korea is so much cheaper.
- SPF 50+ PA++++ — highest UV protection rating
- No white cast, silky finish — rice extract gives a subtle brightening effect
- Price: around ₩18,000 (~$13 USD) — roughly half the overseas price
This one is a non-negotiable on every Olive Young must buy list. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, too.
5. Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint
If you’re only buying one lip product, make it this one. Rom&nd represents everything great about Korean tint culture — pigmented, long-lasting, and actually comfortable.
- Rich color payoff + long wear — doesn’t fade after a meal
- Moisturizing finish — no dry, flaky lips
- Price: around ₩9,000–10,000 (~$7 USD) / 20+ shades
Fair warning: you will not leave with just one. The shades are so pretty that most people end up grabbing three. 😅
Olive Young Shopping Tips You Need to Know
A few last things that’ll save you time and money:
- Download the Olive Young app — tourist discount coupons are available
- Myeongdong Town flagship — on-site tax refund available
- Check app prices before buying in-store — online sometimes runs cheaper
- Always check 1+1 deals first before picking your products
Final Thoughts
Olive Young is honestly one of the best parts of visiting Korea. These 5 picks are a solid starting point — your skin will thank you, and so will your friends back home when they open their gifts. 🛍️
Whenever you spot an Olive Young sign in Myeongdong, Hongdae, or Gangnam — just go in. You won’t regret it.