A Must-Visit Place to Experience Everyday Korean Life
If you travel to Korea, one place you should definitely visit is Daiso. While many tourists usually think of department stores or famous cosmetic shops first, Daiso is one of the best places to experience Korea’s everyday shopping culture up close.
For Koreans, Daiso is not just a simple variety store — it is an essential part of daily life where people can quickly buy useful things at affordable prices. One of the first things foreigners notice when entering Daiso is the incredible variety of products. In a single store, you can find kitchen supplies, stationery, travel items, cleaning tools, storage products, phone accessories, snacks, pet supplies, and seasonal goods.
Most products cost between 1,000 KRW and 5,000 KRW, making it one of the most budget-friendly shopping spots in Korea. It often feels like a treasure hunt because every corner is filled with interesting and practical items. This is one of the main reasons why both locals and tourists love it.
Popular Beauty Corner, Affordable Gifts, and Self-Checkout
One of the most popular sections in Daiso is the beauty and cosmetics corner. It is especially loved by young Koreans and international visitors. Here, you can buy makeup brushes, puffs, skincare tools, sheet masks, mirrors, hair accessories, and cosmetic containers at very low prices.
Korean beauty products, also known as K-beauty, are already famous around the world. Daiso gives visitors a chance to experience Korean beauty products at affordable prices without the pressure of buying expensive premium brands. Some products are known for having surprisingly good quality for their price and are even recommended by beauty YouTubers.
Daiso is also a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts. Instead of expensive souvenir shops in tourist areas, you can find cute Korean-style stationery, practical household goods, character items, and beauty products at much lower prices. Many Daiso stores also have self-checkout counters, allowing customers to scan and pay by themselves, making shopping faster and more convenient.
Convenient Locations, Long Opening Hours, and Things to Know
Another reason Daiso is loved by Koreans is its easy accessibility. You can easily find stores in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, as well as in smaller towns. Many stores are located near subway stations, bus terminals, and busy shopping streets, making them convenient for tourists.
Most Daiso stores are usually open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Although opening hours may vary slightly by location, the long business hours make it easy for travelers to visit even after sightseeing or having dinner.
Of course, there are some downsides. Since the prices are very cheap, some products may not be as durable as premium brands. Also, because everything looks affordable, many people end up buying much more than they originally planned. But that is also part of Daiso’s charm. It is more than just a discount store — it is a place where you can understand Korean lifestyles, shopping habits, and practical culture.
