As my journey in Korea came to an end, the familiar challenge of finding the perfect gifts for family and friends back home presented itself once again. I aimed to find items that were rare in my home country, uniquely Korean, or more affordable there, especially seeking cost-effective yet distinctly Korean items for colleagues.
While shopping in the city has its advantages, Incheon Airport offers a surprisingly delightful selection of both cost-effective and exclusive products.
The 인천안녕샌드, or "Incheon Goodbye Sand," is a unique and exclusive find available only at Incheon Airport, embodying the concept of a farewell with its name, 안녕, which means goodbye in this context. These butter cookies, inspired by traditional Korean sweets, are filled with a harmonious blend of jocheong caramel, whole wheat, and macadamia nuts. Their sophisticated packaging makes them an ideal gift, particularly appealing when served frozen. Priced at 16,000 won (about $10) for a box of 10, these cookies offer a special way to say goodbye, encapsulating the essence of Korea in a sweet treat that can only be purchased at Incheon Airport.
Find them at Paris Baguette outlets near Gate 30 on 3F at Terminal 1, Check-In Counter G on 3F at Terminal 1, in the center of Public Area 1F at Terminal 2, and near Gate 118 on 3F at Concourse.
BHAF's honey butter almonds, known for their wide array of flavors including the unique spicy tteokbokki, are another excellent, airport-exclusive choice. They cater to all tastes, whether for personal enjoyment or as a gift, with 11 and 22 flavor assortments priced at $26 and $42, respectively.
You'll find BHAF almonds at "PACKAGED FOODS" near the Transfer Desk in Terminal 1 and "Sweets" near Gate 250 in Terminal 2.
While seaweed snacks are widely popular and may not be unique, their convenience and lightweight make them an excellent choice for travelers. Especially considering their popularity among foreigners and the practicality of purchasing them duty-free after checking in luggage, they're a smart selection.
You'll find bibigo seaweed snacks at "PACKAGED FOODS" near the Transfer Desk in Terminal 1 and "Sweets" near Gate 250 in Terminal 2.
For those looking to gift something meaningful, I highly recommend Korean red ginseng. Backed by extensive research for its health benefits—boosting immunity, reducing fatigue, improving blood flow, enhancing memory, and aiding women's health during menopause—Korean ginseng is unparalleled. At Incheon Airport, CheongKwanJang offers a premium selection of ginseng products. Unlike those available in the city, which might mix roots and stems, CheongKwanJang uses only the stem, known for its higher anticancer properties. Plus, duty-free shopping means you can enjoy a 10-20% discount.
On a personal note, ginseng has been my go-to for combating the weariness from work, and my family, too, cherishes its benefits. It's a natural supplement we turn to for an energy boost. Gifting it has always been met with enthusiasm. Prices range from 50g at $44, 100g at $80, to 240g at $179.
You can find CheongKwanJang ginseng near Gate 25 on 3F at Terminal 1 and Gate 251 on 3F at Terminal 2.
Despite the challenge of distinguishing them from city offerings, Korean cosmetics remain highly popular among foreigners at Incheon Airport. Olive Young offers a final opportunity to purchase high-quality, affordable beauty products, with essential buys from brands like Mediheal, Innisfree, COSRX, and Dr. Wonder.
Olive Young stores can be found on the basement floor of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Choosing gifts from Incheon Airport isn't just about buying products; it's about sharing a piece of your journey. From the farewell-themed 인천안녕샌드 cookies, only available at the airport, to the health-enhancing ginseng and beyond, each item carries a story and a slice of Korea's rich culture, making your gifts truly special. Happy shopping!
For more shopping tips and recommendations, read our article on Incheon Airport Terminal 1 convenience stores, please refer to the article below."
"Incheon Airport Terminal 1 convenience stores: Your Last Chance for Affordable Shopping."
If you're curious about the curated convenience stores in Terminal 2, read our related article.
"Incheon Airport Terminal 2 Convenience Stores: Your Last Chance for Korean Snack Shopping."
For a comprehensive overview on streamlining your departure from Seoul, please refer to the article below.
"5-Minute Incheon Airport Departure: The Ultimate Guide to Using Seoul's City Airport Terminal"
If you require information about streamlining your arrival in South Korea, please refer to the article below.
If you require general information about luggage, please refer to the article below.
If you're wondering where you can unwind and stretch your legs for free before your flight, explore the articles below:
"Finding Comfort at Incheon Airport: Free Relaxation Spots in Terminal 1 & Concourse"
"Unwind Before You Fly: Discover Terminal 2's Free Comfort Zones at Incheon Airport"
If you want to know the best airport restaurants selected by airport workers, read the article below.
“Incheon Airport Dining: Top Picks by Airport Staff (Part 1: Terminal 1)”
“Incheon Airport Dining: Top Picks by Airport Staff (Part 2: Terminal 2)”
If you're interested in indulging in a multitude of complimentary programs offered by Incheon Airport before your departure, be sure to delve into the article below:
"The Best Things in Life Are Free: Exploring Incheon International Airport's Must-Try Attractions!"
If you're looking to discover the essential apps you'll need while traveling in Korea, take a moment to explore the article below:
"What Apps Can Foreign Travelers Use in Korea?"
If you're curious about traveling in Korea using only a credit card and leaving cash behind, delve into the article below:
"Can You Travel Cashless in Korea with Just a Credit Card?"
If you're interested in learning about the free Wi-Fi available to both Koreans and travelers, be sure to explore the article below:
"How Korean People and Tourists Stay Connected with Free Internet (Free WiFi)"
