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When people think of Seoul, one of the first images that pops up is one of its many shopping districts. Although famous for keeping up with the latest trends in fashion, Seoul is also catching up with the world of resale. We have compiled a handy list of some of the thrift stores that are worth checking out, plus some helpful tips to get the most out of your shopping.
Beautiful Store
Our first stop is the Beautiful Store, also known unofficially as the Goodwill of South Korea. The store, which is also a nonprofit organization, offers donated clothes and household items at very affordable prices. It then uses some of the revenue to support local social programs and small businesses in developing countries. Saving money, the planet, and supporting a good cause: who says you can't do it all? Beautiful Store has over 100 locations across the country, including several branches throughout Seoul such as Bukchon (Anguk), Changgyeonggung-ro, Seocho, and Gangnam.
Thrifting Tip #1: Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and easy-to-remove shoes when shopping, because trying things on is a must at thrift stores, and most Seoul vintage shops do not have fitting rooms.
Vin Prime
Vin Prime's neatly organized racks of clothes will lift any shopper's spirit. Although slightly pricier than the thrift stores you might be used to back home, Vin Prime has something for everyone, whether you are looking for clothes, accessories, or bags. The best part about this store? Vin Prime is the largest thrift franchise in Seoul, with more than ten outlets scattered across the city, including Gangnam, Hapjeong, Hongik University, and Express Bus Terminal. The Gangnam location is the most popular, spanning two floors filled with rail after rail of secondhand gems from brands like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, and Adidas.
Thrifting Tip #2: Go early! Thrift stores usually restock in the morning, so you will get first dibs on new merchandise plus avoid the afternoon crowds.
Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, with more than 5,000 shops in an area of 42,000 square meters. You have probably heard of it because of its popular street food, but if you head to the second floor you will find a hidden labyrinth of independent vintage stalls that most tourists never discover. Follow the red signs for "수입구제" (Imported Quality) up to the second floor to find vintage Burberry trench coats, Ralph Lauren Polo, leather bags, Scottish wool knitwear, and silk blouses. Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu.
Thrifting Tip #3: Do not forget to check the men's and kids' sections while you are at a thrift store. You will probably find something that fits, looks cute, and is totally in style at the moment.
Page One Vintage
Page One is a quirky little vintage store with thoroughly curated items. Attracting avid thrifters since 2009, this cozy and colorful shop is full of whimsical patterned cardigans, colorful knits, and even kitschy cookware. It has two floors, with the first floor consisting of feminine clothing (mostly women's vintage from the 80s and curated Japanese brands) and the second floor consisting of unisex clothing and specially picked vintage pieces. The accessories section is quite popular too: you won't find designer names, but there are plenty of unique bags and earrings to choose from at reasonable prices. Address: 1F and 2F, 75 Dokmak-ro, Mapo-gu.
Thrifting Tip #4: Take your time to go through every rack and every pile. It might seem a little tedious, but that is how you find those little gems that you cannot believe no one else saw before.
Dongmyo Flea Market
No thrifting trip is complete without a visit to Dongmyo Flea Market in Jongno-gu. The signature of Dongmyo is the massive blue tarps spread across the ground, covered in literal mountains of clothes. Here, everything is a flat price, usually 1,000 to 5,000 won per item regardless of brand. Beyond the piles, Dongmyo has permanent indoor stalls with higher-quality curation, where you can find vintage military jackets, 1970s Korean department store pieces, and old leather goods. Arrive at 10:00 AM on Saturday or Sunday for the freshest inventory before the Seoul fashion students clear the best items. Address: 102-8 Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu, near Dongmyo Station Exit 3.
Thrifting Tip #5: Bring cash. Street vendors and most permanent stalls at Dongmyo and Gwangjang are cash only. Bring 50,000 to 100,000 won in small bills (1,000 and 5,000 denominations) to be safe.
That is all we have for now, but let us know in the comments below if you are planning to stop by these stores whenever you are in Seoul. Whether you are hunting for sustainable fashion, a 1990s Burberry trench, or a 1,000-won pile treasure, Seoul's thrift scene has something for every style and budget.
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