[Masup story] Can I bargain the price when I shop in Korea?

Can I bargain the price when I shop in Korea?

 Hello there, today let's explore whether bargaining for goods is possible when shopping in South Korea. Can you haggle over prices when making a purchase?

bargain the price

Learning the Expression: "너무 비싸요." (It's Too Expensive)

 The expression "It's Too Expensive" translates to "너무 비싸요" in Korean. Here, "too" corresponds to "너무" in Korean, and "Expensive" to "비싼" or "돈이 많이 드는." Just like you can say "It's Expensive." in English, in Korean, you can simply say "비싸요." The word "너무" functions similar to "too" in English, emphasizing the statement.

Most Stores in Korea Operate on Fixed Prices

 Convenience stores, supermarkets, clothing stores, restaurants, PC rooms, karaoke bars, hotels, and cafes in Korea mostly have fixed prices. Therefore, bargaining like you might do in Southeast Asia is generally not feasible in Korea. However, there are exceptions. So, where exactly can you bargain?

Places Where Bargaining is Possible

 Traditionally, bargaining is possible in South Korea at traditional markets and street-side stalls, particularly for accessories and miscellaneous items. These are shops that operate without a fixed location. However, even though they are street-side vendors, a peculiar aspect of Korean culture is that prices for food items are usually not negotiable.

The reason behind this is a unique cultural phenomenon that even many Koreans may not fully understand.

Places like traditional markets, Dongdaemun Market, and Namdaemun Market allow bargaining, mostly for items like bags, clothing, and accessories, excluding food. Even shops along the streets of Myeongdong might allow some bargaining for items other than food.

Korean Proverb: "A Word Can Pay Back a Thousand nyang Debts"

 Korean culture has a proverb related to words. How can one word lead to repaying significant debts?

 In this proverb, 

"냥 (nyang)" refers to the currency used in old Korea, and "천 (cheon)" means a thousand.

 "천 냥" signifies a substantial sum of money. Therefore, if one can repay such a large debt with just one word, it implies that one can resolve significant issues or difficulties merely through words. 

 This includes not only money but also resolving significant or difficult situations.

🥕 Shall we examine an example conversation between two sisters?

😡 Elder Sister: (Angry) Why did you wear my clothes without asking?

😔 Younger Sister: Sister, I'm sorry for wearing your clothes without permission. A few days ago, I remembered thinking how beautiful you looked in these clothes. Without realizing it today, I ended up wearing them. I've learned that even beautiful clothes need a good hanger to be truly beautiful.

😳 Elder Sister: (Stammering, calms down) Is... Is that so? From now on, ask before you wear.

 In the conversation between the sisters, even though the younger sister had worn her sister's cherished clothes without permission, her kind words led to the elder sister's anger dissipating. It's a scene where the younger sister safely navigates through this crisis.

When Bargaining, Pleasant Words Increase Your Success Rate

 Just like the Korean proverb suggests, using pleasant words can create a positive atmosphere and increase the likelihood of negotiating lower prices. While purchasing items at lower prices brings joy, the happiness gained from such conversations with foreigners creates unique memories.

 So, if you're planning a trip to South Korea, why not visit traditional markets or street vendors where bargaining is possible? It'll add another layer of enjoyment to your journey.

 We plan to continue posting various stories related to Korean culture on the Masup blog. We hope you'll visit often.

What kind of holiday is Samiljeol in Korea?