f you’re visiting South Korea, one place you simply can’t miss is Olive Young. Known as Korea’s largest health and beauty store, Olive Young offers everything from skincare and makeup to vitamins, snacks, and personal care products.
Whether you’re looking for the latest K-Beauty trends or unique Korean souvenirs, this guide will help you discover the best products worth buying in 2026.
Why is Olive Young So Popular?
Olive Young has over 1,300 stores across South Korea and is one of the first shopping destinations recommended to international visitors.
People love it because:
- Affordable prices
- Tax-free shopping for eligible tourists
- Huge variety of Korean beauty brands
- New trending products every month
- Easy to find in major cities
1. Torriden Dive-In Hyaluronic Serum
One of Korea’s best-selling hydrating serums.
Why tourists love it
- Lightweight texture
- Deep hydration
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Great under makeup
Perfect for anyone wanting the famous “glass skin” look.
2. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+
Frequently recommended by beauty influencers around the world.
Why buy it
- No white cast
- Moisturizing finish
- Works well under makeup
- Suitable for all skin types
Many visitors buy several tubes because it’s often cheaper in Korea than overseas.
3. Anua Heartleaf 77 Toner
This soothing toner became a global bestseller thanks to TikTok and YouTube.
Ideal for:
- Sensitive skin
- Redness
- Acne-prone skin
- Daily hydration
4. MEDIHEAL Sheet Masks
One of Korea’s most famous sheet mask brands.
Popular varieties include:
- Tea Tree
- Collagen
- Madecassoside
- N.M.F Hydrating
Many tourists buy multi-packs because they are affordable and easy to pack.
5. Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun+
A sunscreen trusted by many Koreans with sensitive skin.
Highlights:
- Gentle ingredients
- Strong UV protection
- Reef-friendly formula
- Non-greasy finish
6. VT Reedle Shot
One of the hottest skincare products in Korea.
Why it’s trending:
- Helps improve skin texture
- Supports better absorption of skincare
- Popular among skincare enthusiasts
Start with lower-strength versions if you’re trying it for the first time.
7. FilliMilli Makeup Brushes
Professional-quality makeup brushes at reasonable prices.
Many beauty creators recommend them because they are:
- Soft
- Durable
- Affordable
- Excellent for beginners
8. Dashing Diva Gel Nail Strips
Love salon-quality nails without visiting a salon?
These gel nail strips are:
- Easy to apply
- Long-lasting
- Available in trendy Korean designs
- Great as gifts
9. Korean Vitamins & Health Supplements
Olive Young also sells popular health products.
Popular categories include:
- Collagen
- Probiotics
- Vitamin C
- Lutein
- Omega-3
These are especially popular among visitors from Southeast Asia and North America.
10. Korean Snacks
Don’t leave Olive Young without checking the snack section.
Tourist favorites include:
- Honey Butter Chips
- Pepero
- Almond snacks
- Zero-sugar candy
- Protein snacks
These are perfect souvenirs for family and friends.
Shopping Tips
✔ Download the Olive Young app before shopping.
✔ Look for “1+1” and “2+1” promotions.
✔ Bring your passport to receive tax-free benefits where available.
✔ Visit larger stores in areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, or Busan for the widest selection.
What Should You Buy First?
If you only have a limited budget, these are the must-buy items:
- Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen
- Torriden Serum
- Anua Toner
- MEDIHEAL Masks
- VT Reedle Shot
- Korean Snacks
- Dashing Diva Nail Strips
Final Thoughts
Olive Young is much more than a beauty store—it’s one of the best places to experience modern Korean shopping culture. Whether you’re searching for viral skincare products, affordable cosmetics, wellness items, or tasty Korean snacks, there’s something for everyone.
If it’s your first trip to Korea, make sure Olive Young is on your itinerary. Chances are, you’ll leave with a shopping bag full of products you’ll want to buy again.