What To Buy at Daiso Korea: Top Picks for 1,000 and 5,000 Won

Walking into Daiso in Seongsu-dong, it's hard to ignore the abundance of colourful items lining the shelves. While many products catch the eye, not all of them are worth your 1,000 won (about $0.75) or 5,000 won (around $3.75). Having spent many afternoons exploring various Daiso locations in Seoul, I’ve gathered some practical advice on what to actually invest in, so you don’t waste your money on the mediocre.

Why Daiso?

Daiso is often hailed as the go-to place for affordable home goods, beauty supplies, and quirky gadgets. With thousands of items under 5,000 won, it’s a treasure trove for anyone looking to stock up on essentials without breaking the bank. However, there’s a fine line between useful and unnecessary, and knowing where to draw that line can save you time and money.

What To Buy for 1,000 Won

Items priced at 1,000 won are often small, single-use products. Here are some of my top recommendations:

• Stationery: Daiso's selection of notebooks, pens, and cute sticky notes is impressive. The Kawaii Notebook for 1,000 won offers quality paper and adorable designs, perfect for jotting down thoughts or sketches.
• Beauty Accessories: Consider grabbing a pack of the Makeup Sponges or Facial Masks. These are surprisingly effective for the price and often have cute packaging.
• Kitchen Gadgets: Look for small tools like Measuring Spoons or Silicone Baking Cups. They’re functional and easy to store.

What To Avoid

While browsing, you might be tempted by some items that seem appealing but aren’t worth the investment. For instance, I’ve tried the Travel Squeeze Bottles and found them to be leaky and poorly made, despite their cute design.

What To Buy for 5,000 Won

Stepping up to the 5,000 won range opens up even more possibilities. Here are a few items that stand out:

• Storage Solutions: The Plastic Storage Bins at 5,000 won are sturdy and stackable, perfect for decluttering a small apartment.
• Home Decor: Daiso offers a range of decorative items, including the Mini Planters that add a touch of greenery. These planters are great for those who want to bring some life into their space without a hefty price tag.
• Cooking Utensils: Check out the Non-Stick Frying Pan. It’s not as high-quality as premium brands, but for daily use, it does the job.

Common Missteps

One common mistake is undervaluing the quality of Daiso products. While some items, like heavy-duty cleaning supplies, can fall short, others are surprisingly durable. Take the Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, for example; these are excellent for dusting and can hold up well with regular use.

Seoul Locations Worth Visiting

If you're planning to explore, here are a few noteworthy Daiso locations in Seoul:

• Gangnam Station: This Daiso is conveniently located near the bustling shopping district, making it an easy stop during a day out.
• Itaewon: The Itaewon branch tends to have a more eclectic mix of items, perfect for expats looking for specific goods.
• Hongdae: This location is often crowded, but it offers a great selection of trendy and useful products.

Final Thoughts

While Daiso is often praised for its low prices and variety, it’s essential to approach your shopping with a discerning eye. Many items can be hit-or-miss, so sticking to tried-and-true products can help you make worthwhile purchases. I hope this list gives you a clearer idea of what to look for during your next trip.

In my next post, I’ll be sharing tips on how to navigate the crowded aisles of Olive Young for the best beauty buys. What’s your favourite Daiso find?