What can you purchase with 1000 won in South Korea? Discover 10 budget-friendly options!

What can I buy with 1000 won in South Korea?

South Korea might be known for its high-tech gadgets and luxurious shopping malls, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find budget-friendly options in this vibrant country. With just 1000 won, which is around $0.85 or €0.72, you can still purchase a variety of items or enjoy some unique experiences. So, if you’re on a tight budget or simply enjoy discovering local gems, here are some options that won’t break the bank!

1. Street food: South Korea is famous for its street food culture, and with 1000 won, you can savor some mouthwatering delicacies. From savory pancakes called “jeon” to sweet rice cakes known as “tteokbokki,” the street food scene has something for everyone.

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2. Souvenirs: Want to bring back a piece of South Korea? With 1000 won, you can find small trinkets, keychains, or bookmarks that capture the essence of the country and serve as a reminder of your time here.

3. Korean face masks: South Korea is renowned for its skincare products, and 1000 won can get you a single-use face mask from a local convenience store. Pamper yourself with a refreshing mask and enjoy a mini spa experience.

4. Bus rides: Explore South Korea’s bustling cities with just 1000 won in your pocket. Most bus rides within the city cost around this amount, allowing you to travel comfortably and save money on transportation.

5. Korean snacks: Visit a local supermarket or convenience store, and you’ll find a wide range of tasty Korean snacks within your budget. From crispy seaweed chips to delicious instant ramen, satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

6. Korean stationery: If you’re a fan of cute and colorful stationery, you’re in luck! 1000 won can get you adorable stickers, pens, or notebooks from a local stationery shop. Stock up on unique supplies and make your desk a little more cheerful.

7. Museum admissions: Expand your cultural knowledge by visiting a museum or art gallery. With 1000 won, you can gain entry to some smaller, lesser-known establishments and appreciate the rich history and art of South Korea.

8. Coffee or tea: Take a break from your adventures and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at a local cafe. 1000 won will get you a basic beverage, allowing you to relax and soak in the atmosphere of South Korea’s vibrant cafe culture.

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9. Postcards and stamps: Send a piece of South Korea to your loved ones back home by purchasing postcards and stamps. With 1000 won, you can easily buy a few postcards and stamps, bringing a personal touch to your correspondence.

10. Traditional market finds: Explore South Korea’s bustling traditional markets, where you can find a wide range of affordable goods. With 1000 won, you can pick up fruits, vegetables, or even a small piece of clothing.

As you can see, even with just 1000 won, there are plenty of options to make the most of your budget in South Korea. So, whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or a shopaholic, embrace the affordable side of this remarkable country and enjoy your time without worrying about breaking the bank.

Traditional Korean Street Food

Korean street food is famous for its taste and variety. In South Korea, you can find numerous street vendors selling delicious and budget-friendly snacks. Here are some traditional Korean street foods that you can purchase with 1000 won:

Ddeokbokki: Spicy rice cakes cooked in a gochujang sauce.
Tteokkochi: Skewered rice cakes coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
Mandu: Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
Bungeoppang: Fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste.
Gyeranppang: Bread with a whole egg cooked in the center.

Other popular street foods include kimbap (rice rolls filled with various ingredients), hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and cinnamon), and bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes). With 1000 won, you can enjoy a satisfying and authentic taste of Korean street food.

Try a variety of tasty snacks on a budget

South Korea is known for its delicious street food and affordable snacks. With 1000 won, you can try a variety of mouthwatering treats. Here are some budget-friendly options:

Snack	Description
Tteokbokki	A popular street food made of spicy rice cakes cooked in a savory sauce.
Odeng	Skewered fish cakes boiled in a flavorful broth.
Bungeoppang	A fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste.
Kimbap	Rice rolls filled with a variety of ingredients like vegetables, meat, and pickled radish.
Hotteok	A sweet pancake filled with a sticky syrup made of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.
Boong-uh-bbang	A Korean dessert made of fluffy dough filled with sweet custard cream or red bean paste.
Jjolmyeon	Chewy noodles served with a spicy and tangy sauce.
Twigim	A deep-fried snack made of various vegetables, seafood, and meat.
Gyeran-ppang	A fluffy bread filled with a whole egg, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Biji-jjigae	A hearty stew made with leftover soybean pulp and various vegetables.

With just 1000 won, you can indulge in a variety of flavors and textures that South Korea has to offer. Don’t miss out on the chance to try these budget-friendly snacks!

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Handmade Souvenirs

If you’re looking to bring home a unique and memorable souvenir from South Korea, consider purchasing handmade items. With 1000 won, you can find several options that showcase the country’s rich culture and craftsmanship. Here are some budget-friendly handmade souvenirs to consider:


Souvenir	Description
Handmade Keychain	A small, intricately designed keychain that represents Korean symbols such as hanbok or traditional Korean houses.
Handcrafted Bookmark	A beautifully crafted bookmark made from traditional Korean paper called hanji, featuring Korean motifs and patterns.
Clay Figurine	A hand-formed clay figurine representing a traditional Korean character or animal, perfect for display or use as a decoration.
Fabric Coaster	A handmade fabric coaster featuring Korean embroidery or traditional patterns, ideal for protecting your surfaces with style.
Hand-Painted Fan	A delicate hand-painted fan featuring intricate Korean art, a practical and beautiful souvenir to beat the summer heat.
Hanbok Magnet	A small magnet in the shape of a hanbok, the traditional Korean clothing, to adorn your fridge or magnetic board.
FAQ:

What can I buy in South Korea with 1000 won?

With 1000 won in South Korea, you can buy small snacks like a pack of instant noodles or a bag of chips. There are also street food options like tteokbokki, a spicy rice cake dish, or gunbam, a fried squid snack.

Is 1000 won enough to buy a drink in South Korea?

Yes, 1000 won is enough to buy a small bottle of water or a can of soda in South Korea. You might also find some inexpensive options at convenience stores or street vendors.

Are there any budget-friendly souvenirs available for 1000 won?

Yes, you can find some budget-friendly souvenirs for 1000 won in South Korea. These could include small keychains, magnets, or postcards. You may also find some traditional Korean crafts or accessories at this price range.

Can I buy a cheap meal with 1000 won in South Korea?

While it may be challenging to find a full meal for 1000 won in South Korea, you can still get some cheap options. Street food stalls often offer small portions of dishes like kimbap (seaweed rice rolls) or odeng (fish cake skewers) for around 1000 won.

What are some budget-friendly entertainment options in South Korea for 1000 won?

If you’re looking for budget-friendly entertainment options in South Korea with 1000 won, you can visit some public parks or gardens that have free admission. You can also rent a bicycle for an hour or two, or explore some local neighborhoods on foot.