🤓 Glasses broken? International student eyeglass store guide

Have you just arrived in Korea and found it hard to see the board in class, or were you embarrassed because your glasses broke?

It's already hard to communicate, so you might feel lost about what to do at an optician or if you can buy lenses online.

If you're worried it may take days or be expensive, don't worry. Korean optical shops are surprisingly fast and very affordable!

Don't worry too much. I'll explain step by step how to get glasses and lenses easily and wisely in Korea! ✨

👓 Process and cost for getting glasses

When you first visit a Korean optical store, it's normal to feel anxious not knowing the process or prices.

1. After entering, you first get an eye exam.

2. Then you choose the frame and lenses you want, pay, and pick them up.

3. Blue light+UV blocking lenses vary by option, from 40,000 to 170,000 KRW.

4. Basic lenses are made relatively fast, but multifocal or special lenses may take more time to produce.

👉 Just knowing the process will make your visit to the optical shop much more comfortable!

📦 Contact lenses, not available for online delivery?

You may be surprised that, even after browsing a lens brand website, online payment or delivery isn't possible.

1. In Korea, contact lenses are treated as medical devices, so you generally need to visit a store in person.

2. On March 28, 2024, the Constitutional Court also ruled it constitutional to ban online sales of lenses by opticians.

3. Brands like 'LensMe' also instruct you to reserve online, then pay and pick up at an offline store.

👉 It's easier if you select the design online first, then visit a store in person!

🎨 Tips for buying color and one-day lenses

You may want pretty color or convenient one-day lenses and be curious about prices and types.

1. Most monthly color lenses are around 30,000 KRW.

2. Some daily one-day lenses are available for about 19,000 KRW.

3. One-day lenses are convenient, but if used daily, the cost adds up. Compare them with monthly lenses based on your usage.

4. Color lenses may look fashionable, but because they touch your eyes directly, checking safety standards is very important!

👉 If you choose lenses that fit your lifestyle, you'll save money and keep your eyes comfortable!