3 Must-Visit Souvenir Shops in Jeju Island! From Classic to Unique Local Crafts
Jeju Island, often called the ‘Hawaii of Korea,’ is a popular resort destination. This island, with its unique nature and culture, offers a plethora of charming souvenirs. Beyond classic items like mandarins (hallabong) and black pig motifs, you’ll find sophisticated handmade crafts created by local young artists.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected three local souvenir shops in Jeju Island that we genuinely recommend for both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Whether you’re doing last-minute shopping before your flight or leisurely searching for treasures while gazing at the ocean, find the perfect shop to match your purpose and stay area.
By Jeju
📍 Address: 1023-2 Yongdam 3(sam)-dong, 특별자치도, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea
Located about a 10-minute drive from Jeju International Airport along the scenic Dodudong Rainbow Coastal Road, ‘By Jeju’ is a classic large souvenir shop where travelers to Jeju Island often stop before their flights. The spacious two-story store features an impressive array of handmade items created by over 300 local artists.
You can find all sorts of Jeju souvenirs here, from adorable stationery and goods featuring mandarins, Dol Hareubang (Jeju’s traditional stone statues), and haenyeo (female divers), to accessories, cosmetics, and food items like sweets. Products are beautifully displayed in various sections, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed shopping experience with a cart, much like in a supermarket.
Furthermore, the shop boasts an ocean-view resting area where you can admire the magnificent Jeju sea and airplanes taking off and landing at the airport. While prices aren’t extremely cheap, the selection is richer and more reasonable than at airport duty-free shops, making it perfect for those who value quality. A spacious dedicated parking lot is also available, ensuring peace of mind for those traveling by rental car. It’s truly an ideal location to focus on souvenir shopping without regrets, using the last few hours before your flight.
JESTORY
📍 Address: 60 Maksukpo-ro, 대륜동 특별자치도, Seogwipo, Jeju-do, South Korea
If you’re staying in Seogwipo, the central city in southern Jeju Island, ‘JESTORY’ is an absolute must-visit. This is Seogwipo’s largest selection shop for small goods and gifts, bringing together unique works by local artists. The first and second floors are packed with so many items that you’ll lose track of time once you step inside.
Of particular note are limited-edition items made by upcycling discarded haenyeo diving suits, and handmade candles and diffusers that capture the scents of Jeju’s nature. These items go beyond mere souvenirs, offering ‘authentic Jeju’ experiences that reflect local culture and environmental awareness. The price range is broad, allowing for flexibility whether you’re treating yourself or buying a casual gift for a friend.
From the second-floor windows, you can gaze upon the clear blue sea with Bum Island (Ho-do) floating in the distance, making it a popular photo spot for social media. The store’s pleasant background music makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the ocean view between shopping. A free delivery service (within Korea) is also available for purchases over 100,000 won, which is a welcome bonus for those who want to buy in bulk without worrying about luggage. Take your time to discover your favorites while savoring Seogwipo’s local atmosphere.
The Islander 더 아일랜더
📍 Address: 7 Gwandeok-ro 4-gil, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea
Tucked away in the heart of Jeju City, within walking distance of the famous Dongmun Market and Chilseong-ro (Seven Star Street), ‘The Islander’ is highly recommended for fragrance lovers and travelers who appreciate well-designed items. It stands apart from typical ‘mass-produced souvenirs,’ offering a selection of high-sense and creative products.
The store features unique items such as special toothpaste and soap inspired by Jeju Island’s iconic ‘volcanic rock (lava stone),’ and original perfumes in sophisticated packaging. Goods depicting Jeju’s four seasons in collaboration with illustrators also make excellent home decor. Furthermore, there’s a thoughtful service where you can purchase stamps in-store, write postcards on the spot, and send them as international mail, allowing for a romantic experience of sending a letter to yourself or a loved one from your travels.
Another hidden charm of this shop is the warm hospitality of the friendly owner couple, who are pro-Japanese and can speak Chinese and basic English. There are even touching reviews, such as one recounting how they ‘rushed to pick up a forgotten item before going to the airport, and the owners kindly assisted them even before opening hours.’ If you want to find unique, upscale Jeju souvenirs while experiencing the warmth of the local people, be sure to visit.
Tips for Successful Shopping in Jeju Island
When shopping for souvenirs in Jeju Island, it’s crucial to check for parking availability in advance if you’re using a rental car. Large, suburban stores like ‘By Jeju’ and ‘JESTORY’ have ample parking. However, for shops like ‘The Islander’ located in the intricate alleys of the city center, it’s smoothest to park your car in a nearby public parking lot or around Dongmun Market and access the shop on foot.
Additionally, Jeju Island has many unique local products distinct from mainland Korea. Snacks flavored with hallabong, black pig processed foods, and peanut makgeolli can be found in general supermarkets and markets. However, for ‘keepsake items (general goods, scented products, art pieces)’ filled with the passion of local creators, it’s overwhelmingly recommended to purchase them at specialized local craft shops like those introduced in this article. Prices vary from affordable to slightly higher, but each item carries a special story unique to Jeju Island.
The airport can get very crowded depending on the time of day, and duty-free shop selections are limited. Therefore, securing the souvenirs you truly desire proactively during your city strolls or coastal drives is the smart way to fully enjoy your Jeju Island trip until the very end.
