The 2025 Korea Grand Sale has officially begun, welcoming tourists worldwide to experience the best of Korea. Taking place from January 15 to February 28, this annual shopping and cultural tourism festival offers diverse discounts, unique experiences, and exciting promotions for both international tourists and domestic shoppers. Let’s dive into the highlights of this year’s event!
What is the Korea Grand Sale?
The Korea Grand Sale, launched in 2011, is Korea's premier shopping and cultural tourism festival. Held during the off-peak travel season of January and February, it aims to attract international tourists and stimulate domestic consumption.
This year’s event features the largest-ever participation of over 1,680 companies, providing exclusive offers and convenience across sectors like shopping, accommodation, transportation, and cultural experiences.
Key Benefits: From Flights to Shopping
1. Unbeatable Flight Discounts
- Major airlines, including Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, are offering up to 94% discounts on flights across 214 routes.
- Additional benefits include free extra baggage allowances and in-flight Wi-Fi passes.
- Global OTAs like Trip.com have partnered to provide discounts of up to 31% on flights originating from China, Hong Kong, and Japan.
2. Accommodation Offers
- Hotels such as Ibis Styles Ambassador and Mayfield Hotel are offering up to 19% discounts, along with spa vouchers and prepaid cards as part of their packages.
3. Shopping Extravaganza
- Major department stores (Galleria, Lotte, Shinsegae, Hyundai), duty-free shops, and outlets are participating.
- Shoppers can receive up to KRW 1 million ($760) in gift cards, shopping credits, and coupon books based on purchase amounts.
- Special discounts include:
- 10% off at Musinsa Standard stores nationwide.
- 20% discount coupons for purchases over KRW 150,000 at Olive Young stores in Myeongdong.
Exclusive Experiences for International Visitors
1. Partnerships with Service Platforms
- K-Ride: Foreign tourists using this mobility platform receive a KRW 3,000 discount code.
- WOW Pass: Offers up to 5% cashback when used at brands like Olive Young, Daiso, and Innisfree.
- UnionPay: Provides 10% instant discounts at over 1,000 partner stores.
2. Cultural and Activity Experiences
This year’s event features 17 hands-on programs (up from 12 in 2024), allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Korea’s vibrant culture:
- New additions include:
- Nongshim ramen factory tours.
- Traditional accessory-making workshops in Bukchon.
- Gangwon Province sightseeing, soju factory tours, and ski lessons.
- Popular experiences like the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and Taekwondo classes at Muju’s Taekwondo Center also make a return.
3. Welcome Centers
- Located in popular districts like Myeongdong, Hongdae, Seongsu, and Gangnam, these centers provide:
- Coupon books with exclusive discounts.
- Rewards for shoppers presenting receipts or immediate tax refund certifications.
Regional and Global Outreach
The Korea Grand Sale is also linked to significant global events, such as the APEC First Senior Officials’ Meeting, to promote Korea’s tourism offerings.
- A booth at the Gyeongju HICO Convention Center (January 24–28) will showcase exclusive promotions and benefits for visiting Gyeongju and North Gyeongsang Province.
How to Participate
Detailed information, including flight discounts, event schedules, and promotional benefits, is available on the Korea Grand Sale official website:
https://en.koreagrandsale.co.kr.
A Celebration of Shopping, Culture, and More
Jang Mi-ran, Vice Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, emphasized the importance of the Korea Grand Sale in revitalizing Korea’s tourism and economy. “We hope that international visitors will enjoy the generous discounts and diverse cultural experiences while gaining unforgettable memories of Korea.”
The Korea Grand Sale continues to solidify its role as a gateway to experiencing the best Korea offers. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to shop, explore, and immerse yourself in Korean culture!
Source: Korea Policy Briefing (www.korea.kr)
