Before I came to Korea to teach, I was like anybody else in my situation. I read every imaginable article and blog, and watched ALL the videos on YouTube. One of the big topics I often wondered about was how much groceries and toiletries would cost. Well, it’s been one full year that I’ve been teaching in Korea and I have a good idea of what and where to buy the things I like and need. It differs for everyone, but for my needs I have certain shopping habits now based on availability, price, convenience, etc.
Here’s a list of prices for some of the items I buy and what may be interesting to you. They are based on the two main stores I shop for groceries and toiletries at – HomePlus and Costco. HomePlus is one of the major chain retail stores in Korea. It’s very similar to target, but on a smaller scale.
HomePlus:
- Mayonaise (28.2 oz) – $3.00
- Heinz Ketchup (20 oz) – $2.77
- Hunts Ketchup (20 oz) – $4.42
- HomePlus Ketchup (28.2 oz) – $1.66
- Parmesan Cheese (8 oz) – $8.27
- Canned Corn (12 oz) – $0.89
- Tuna (four 3.5 oz cans) – $6.35 ($4.41 on sale)
- Butter (4 sticks) – $5.78-$6.93
- 1 Deodorant Stick – $6.68-$7.25
- Deodorant Spray (5 oz) – $9.76
- Razors (4 individual blades) – $9.55
- Razors (8 individual blades) – $16.90
- Shaving Cream (small can) – $3.81
- Shaving Cream (large can) – $6.84
- Hershey’s Chocolate Snack Bars (10.78 oz bag) – $7.28
- Hershey’s Syrup (24 oz) – $5.16
- Haagen Dazs (32 oz) – $15.49
Costco:
- Spaghetti Sauce (3 jars) – $8.84
- Croutons (32 oz) – $7.07
- Steak (32.6 oz) – $44.17
- Navel Oranges (15) – $11.50
- Honey (96 oz) – $31.85
- Maple Syrup (33.8 oz) – $17.25
- Oatmeal (2.65 lbs) – $12.38
- Weight Gainer (2.25 lbs) – $26.54
- Weight Gainer (6.2 lbs) – $33.62
- 1 Shaver and 14 Blades – $38.05
- Mixed Nuts (2.5 lbs) – $24.59
Lots of vitamins comparable to USA prices
Tampons and feminine products are available
Obviously there are endless other items. Let me know if you want to know prices on any of them.
I hope this was helpful.
They are seriously affordable. That's the thing I like most about in Korea.
Right now I am applying to the EPIK program for the upcoming year. I am hoping that I will get a more rural placement. I try to eat by the Paleo/Whole30 meal plan about 75% of the time. Are fresh vegetables available for a reasonable cost? My regular day here consists of eggs, chicken (some days), and veggies. Eggs are my main source of protein. Would it be reasonable for me to continue that diet in SK and still be able to save money? I know you said meat is hard to come by. Are you referring to just red meat or are you including chicken in that?
Thanks!
Brandi
Super helpful! Thanks! I have been watching your Youtube vids up until now but just stumbled onto your website.
Prices of fruits and veggies (even seasonal prices) would also be really helpful 🙂