By Liu Jiawen, compiled and reported
The perfect time to go on a shopping spree in Korea is here. The 2012 Korea Grand Sale (KOREA GRAND SALE 2012) will take place from January 9 to February 29 next year in major tourist destinations such as Seoul, Busan, Gangwon-do, North Jeolla-do, North Gyeongsang-do, and Jeju. Numerous retailers are offering special promotions, with discounts of 50% to 90% available at department stores like Shinsegae, duty-free shops such as Lotte Duty Free, and the Paju Premium Outlets. For accommodation, 20 hotels across Korea are running a “One More Night Promotion,” allowing guests staying for 2–4 days to enjoy an extra night for free. During the shopping season, visitors also get additional meal discounts and free access to various facilities.
The Korea Shopping Season will be held from January 9 to February 29 next year, with 20 hotels participating by offering an extra night free. (Image provided by the Korea Tourism Organization)
To make things easier for international visitors, free shuttle buses will be available during the event, including routes from Seoul to Busan, Seoul to Jeonju (suspended every Monday, one trip per day), and a loop service in Gangnam District (three trips on three days per week). Foreign tourists who book KTX high-speed rail tickets and purchase them at designated sales locations can enjoy up to 30% off (valid until December 31, 2011). In addition, the shopping season features events such as K-POP concerts, fan merchandise sales by Hallyu stars, Korean film screenings, and fan meet-and-greets, giving visitors the chance to experience the charm of Korean pop culture while they shop.
During the event, multiple shopping centers including Shinsegae Department Store and Lotte Duty Free offer discounts of 50% to 90%. (Image provided by the Korea Tourism Organization)
Additionally, the official event website has launched several online activities. By answering questions about the Korea Shopping Season or leaving comments expressing your expectations and suggestions, you could win prizes such as a KOREA PASS prepaid card, hotel stay vouchers, theme park tickets, and performance event tickets. The Taipei Branch of the Korea Tourism Organization is also giving away 1,000 limited-edition shopping discount cards that the public can claim for free.
For more details, please visit the official website of the Visit Korea Committee.