So you’ve fallen in love with Korean skincare, quirky souvenirs, or maybe even a few too many BTS albums. Your suitcase is bursting, and you’re wondering—can I just ship all this home instead?
Great news: Yes, you can ship things from Korea to your home country! South Korea has a reliable and surprisingly affordable international shipping system, with options ranging from speedy EMS (Express Mail Service) to slower but cheaper surface mail. Whether you’re a tourist looking to send gifts, or a student shipping personal items back home, this guide will help you understand how it all works.
Where Can I Send International Mail from Korea?
The most common place is the Korea Post (우체국, “Ucheguk”), South Korea’s national postal service. Most neighborhoods—even in smaller towns—have at least one post office. Major post offices often have English-speaking staff or translation services available.
You can also use international courier services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS, which have offices in major cities and offer faster, often more expensive service.
What Shipping Options Are Available?
At Korea Post, you can choose from:
- EMS (Express Mail Service): Fast and reliable, with tracking. Delivery typically takes 3–7 business days.
- Air Mail: Slower than EMS but cheaper. Usually arrives within 1–2 weeks.
- Surface Mail: The cheapest option, but can take over a month depending on your destination.
You’ll receive a tracking number for most options, and you can track your parcel via the Korea Post website or app (available in English).
How Do I Prepare My Package?
Bring your items to the post office and let them know you want to ship internationally. You can pack it yourself or ask them to help. Some locations even sell packing materials. For fragile items like ceramics or glass, make sure you pack with extra care.
You’ll need to fill out a customs declaration form, listing the contents and value of your package. Honesty is important here—don’t undervalue or omit items, as it could delay delivery or result in fines at customs.
Can I Ship Anything I Want?
Not quite. While Korea is shipping-friendly, there are some rules:
- No batteries or power banks (unless handled specially)
- No flammable or pressurized items (like spray cans or lighters)
- No fresh food, plants, or seeds
- No drugs or medical products without proper authorization
Every country also has its own list of restricted or prohibited imports, so check your home country's customs website to be safe.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs vary based on destination, weight, and speed. Here’s a rough estimate for a 2kg box to the U.S.:
- EMS: Around ₩45,000–₩60,000 (~$35–$50 USD)
- Air Mail: ₩30,000–₩45,000
- Surface Mail: ₩15,000–₩25,000
You can use the official Korea Post website to calculate exact prices based on your country and package weight.
Can I Ship Directly from a Store?
Some large department stores or duty-free shops in Korea offer international shipping services right from the store. They’ll handle the packing and paperwork for you. This is especially convenient if you’re buying luxury goods or gifts.
Pro Tip: Avoid Airport Stress
If your suitcase is overweight and you’re dreading airline fees, shipping your purchases home can actually save you money. Plus, it saves space for any last-minute shopping at the airport!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sending gifts to loved ones or simply decluttering your luggage, shipping from Korea is a smart, simple solution. Just head to the nearest post office, bring a little patience for the paperwork, and let the Korean postal system do the rest.
Bonus: many travelers say their parcels arrived faster than expected, with everything intact. That’s Korea for you—efficient, friendly, and always ready to help.
Labels: Korea international shipping, ship from Korea, travel tips Korea, Korea Post EMS
Search Description: Can tourists ship things from Korea? Learn how to send packages overseas from Korea, including EMS, customs rules, costs, and shipping tips.
Image alt: Parcel being packed for international shipping at a Korea Post office
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