In contrast to other Asian cities that are sometimes accused of charging a “white tax” -- where tourists pay more than locals -- Seoul is continuing its yearly custom of offering discounts to foreign visitors.
Starting today, international tourists to South Korea’s capital can take advantage of the city-wide Seoul Hot Summer Sale.
More than 1,300 stores throughout the city are participating in the event. Discounts include 30% off hotel stays at Marriott hotels, 50% off airport rail fares and up to 60% off foreign exchange commissions at major banks.
"This sale is an event for foreign visitors only, and does not apply to Korean citizens,” says the official website. Thailand, maybe take some cues? Most major duty free shops and department stores including Lotte, Hyundai, Galleria and Shinsegae are participating.
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To receive the discount, tourists must print out the “discount card” from the website or download a mobile version and show it when shopping at participating stores.
Tourists may be required to show their passports when buying too, to prove their non-Korean heritage.
Cards are also being given out at the Seoul Hot Summer Sale information booth (counter 44) at Incheon International Airport.
Those who spend more than ₩100,000 ($89) are eligible for prizes including round-trip Korean Air flights to Seoul.
The sale runs till the end of August. Happy shopping!
August 1-August 31, 2013; +82 2 120
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