Koreatown in New York is small, but there is a lot happening on those few blocks around West 32nd Street. Most people come for the food, but the area is also great for shopping, especially if you’re into K-beauty, Korean snacks, and the kind of quirky little things you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Everything is packed into the stretch of 32nd Street between Broadway and Fifth Avenue, so you don’t have to walk far to see it all.
K-Beauty
Koreatown is one of the best places in New York if you want to shop K-beauty. There are several small stores filled with everything from sheet masks and cleansing balms to popular essences and ampoules. The selection is usually wider and more up to date than what you’ll find in the big chains. This is also where you’ll spot the more niche brands that haven’t made it to Sephora yet. My current favorite for K-beauty is Kosette.
Snacks and Supermarkets
The Korean supermarkets in the area are perfect if you want instant noodles, Korean makeup, kimchi, drinks like banana milk, or just some fun candy. The shelves are packed with things that are great to bring home, and you almost always end up buying more than you planned. H Mart is a large Korean supermarket chain, and the Koreatown location has everything you could want in terms of snacks, noodles, and sauces. You’ll also find banchan and other small dishes in the refrigerated section, ready to take home.
K-pop Merch
If you, or someone you know, is into K-pop, Koreatown is a great place to look for albums, posters, and collectibles. There are a few shops with surprisingly big selections, and they update their stock regularly. The shop next to Kosette is probably the best known.
Culture and Small Shops
You’ll also find bookstores, gift shops, and places selling Korean ceramics, paper crafts, and stationery. They’re cozy stores to browse, especially if you’re looking for something that feels a little more unique than what you usually find in Midtown.
All in all, shopping in Koreatown is a fun little detour in the middle of the city. It’s not a huge shopping district, but it’s one of those areas where you can wander around and discover things you didn’t even know you were looking for. If you’re already in the neighborhood for a meal, set aside a little extra time to explore. It’s worth it.
More curious about Korea? Read my Korea Blog
There’s nothing like starting your day in New York City, with endless adventures waiting just outside your door. To get the best rates and the widest selection of hotels, I recommend booking well in advance of your stay.
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