Navigating life in Korea is a lot of fun, but it can also be a little expensive. Wouldn't it be great to find some hidden ways to save money, just like the locals do? If you've ever walked through a bustling Korean traditional market, you might have seen signs for "온누리상품권" (Onnuri Gift Certificates) and wondered what they were. Most foreigners assume these are only for Korean citizens, but that's actually not true!
Here's a fantastic secret: if you have an Alien Registration Card (ARC), you can get all the benefits of these gift certificates, including major discounts. They're an easy way to save money on groceries, food, and goods while supporting local businesses.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Onnuri Gift Certificates. We'll show you how to buy them, where to use them, and why they're a must-have for anyone living in Korea. Let’s dive in and start saving!
What is an Onnuri Gift Certificate (온누리상품권)?
Think of Onnuri Gift Certificates as a special type of Korean currency. They are issued by the Korean government to help boost the economy in traditional markets and local business districts. While they might look like regular gift certificates, they have a huge benefit that you won't find anywhere else: you can buy them at a discount!
The biggest perk is that you can purchase them for less than their face value. The discount rate depends on the type of certificate you buy: digital types (mobile and card) are generally 10% off, while the traditional paper certificates are typically 5% off.
During special promotional periods like Seollal or Chuseok, the discount on digital certificates can increase to as much as 15%. It's an instant saving on your groceries, fresh produce, and delicious street food. The certificates come in three main types: paper, mobile, and card-type, each with its own advantages. We'll get into those next!
Who Can Buy Onnuri Gift Certificates?
This is the most important part of this guide, and the information can be a bit tricky. While there’s no official statement from the government explicitly saying that foreigners can buy them, many foreigners living in Korea have been able to successfully purchase them with a valid Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증).
In practice, you'll need to use an ID that's recognized by a Korean bank or public institution. It’s always best to check with your bank directly before you go, as policies can vary slightly. So, while it's not a guarantee, it's definitely a benefit worth exploring if you’re a long-term resident.
Types of Onnuri Gift Certificates (온누리상품권 종류)
To make things easy, you have a choice of three different ways to buy and use these certificates. Pick the one that works best for your lifestyle!
Paper Certificates (지류상품권)
These are the classic, physical certificates.
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How to Buy: Visit a major Korean bank branch (like Woori Bank, Shinhan Bank, KB Kookmin Bank, or Nonghyup Bank). Go to the counter with your Alien Registration Card and cash.
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Important Update: Please note that as of 2025, the monthly purchase limit for these paper certificates has been reduced. Also, those under the age of 14 are no longer able to purchase them, and you can't buy them on behalf of someone else.
Mobile Certificates (모바일 상품권)
These are the most convenient option for the digital-savvy.
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How to Buy: You can use various mobile apps that support digital Onnuri Gift Certificates. The most common ones are the official Zero Pay app and the mobile banking apps from major banks like Woori, Shinhan, and KB Kookmin. You simply link your Korean bank account to these apps to buy and use the certificates directly from your phone.
Card-Type Certificates (카드형 상품권)
This option lets you use your own credit or debit card.
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How to Use: You link your personal credit or debit card to an app that supports the card-type certificate. When you use your card at a participating store, a part of your purchase is automatically recognized as an Onnuri Gift Certificate payment, and the discount is applied.
How to Find Affiliated Stores (가맹점 찾는 법)
Now that you know how to get them, you might be wondering: where can I actually use them? Not every single store accepts them, but it’s easy to find the ones that do.
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Look for the sticker: The simplest way is to look for the official Onnuri Gift Certificate sticker on the storefront. It's usually a bright, circular sticker placed on the front door or window of the shop. You'll see this sticker at most traditional markets.
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Use a mobile app: The easiest and most reliable way is to use apps that support Onnuri Gift Certificates, such as the Zero Pay app (제로페이 앱) or major bank apps. Most of these apps include a map feature showing affiliated stores near you.
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Check the official website: You can also use the "전통시장 통통" website. Simply search for a specific traditional market in your area, and the site will list all the stores that accept the gift certificates.
How to Use Onnuri Gift Certificates
Using the certificates is just as easy as buying them. Here’s a quick guide for each type:
Using Paper Certificates
Using Mobile Certificates
Using Card-Type Certificates
Extra Benefits You Should Know
The discount is great, but there are even more perks that make using these certificates a smart move.
Get a Tax Deduction
Enjoy Special Discounts
From time to time, the government holds special events, especially around major holidays like Seollal or Chuseok. During these periods, the purchase discount rate can be temporarily increased to as much as 15%. Keep an eye on local news or announcements to take advantage of these deals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some quick answers to common questions you might have about using Onnuri Gift Certificates.
Q1. What if I don't have an Alien Registration Card?
Unfortunately, you must have a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC) or other official foreign ID card recognized in Korea to purchase Onnuri Gift Certificates. This rule is in place to prevent misuse and ensure the benefits go to residents.
Q2. Can I use a foreign debit or credit card to buy them?
No. To purchase mobile or card-type certificates, you must use a bank account or a card issued in your name from a Korean financial institution. Paper certificates must be purchased with cash.
Q3. Can I use my mobile Onnuri Gift Certificate for online shopping?
Yes. There are several online traditional market malls, like 온라인 전통시장관, where you can use mobile Onnuri Gift Certificates. These sites sell products from various markets across the country, so you can still get the benefit without leaving your home.
Conclusion
Using Onnuri Gift Certificates (온누리상품권) is one of the best ways to get real discounts and make your money go further in Korea. What once seemed like a perk for locals is actually a fantastic opportunity for foreigners as well.
By using your Alien Registration Card, you can unlock a world of savings, support small businesses, and experience a key part of Korean culture. So, the next time you visit a traditional market, be sure to ask about an Onnuri Gift Certificate and start saving money, just like a local!
👉 The Official Website : Onnuri Gift
👉 Find nearby traditional markets that accept Onnuri Gift Certificates
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Learn how to buy and use digital Onnuri Gift Certificates (디지털
온누리상품권) through Zero Pay
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