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Daiso: The High-Quality 'Dollar Store' Taking Over Korean Beauty and Life
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Daiso: The High-Quality 'Dollar Store' Taking Over Korean Beauty and Life

EpicKor

In most countries, a "Dollar Store" is a place for cheap, low-quality items. In South Korea, Daiso is a lifestyle destination. With most items priced between 1,000 KRW ($0.75) and 5,000 KRW ($3.70), it has become the go-to spot for everything from kitchenware to high-tech skincare.

1. The K-Beauty Revolution at Daiso

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The biggest trend in 2024-25 is Daiso Beauty. Major Korean skincare brands have launched exclusive "Daiso lines" that feature the same active ingredients as luxury products but at a fraction of the cost. Items like the "VT Reedle Shot" at Daiso have become so popular that they sell out in minutes every morning.

The crowded beauty aisle of a large Seoul Daiso store

A variety of affordable Daiso skincare products

2. Camping and DIY Culture

Daiso has also tapped into Korea's love for camping and DIY. You can find professional-grade camping gear, stationery, and home organization tools that are both aesthetic and functional. It’s the ultimate place for "Life Hacks."

A display of affordable camping gear at Daiso

The iconic red and white logo of a Korean Daiso building

3. Why is it so popular?

In a period of high inflation, Daiso offers "Small Certain Happiness" (Sohwak-haeng). You can go in with $10 and come out with a bag full of items that actually improve your daily life. It’s not just a store; it’s a form of retail therapy.

FAQ: Shopping Guide

Q: Which is the best Daiso to visit? A: The 12-story Daiso in Myeongdong is the flagship and offers the widest variety of goods. Q: Can I use a foreign credit card? A: Yes, Daiso accepts most major international credit cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay.

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As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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