韓国、ローカルの本音
韓国を知る地元の人々のリアルな視点。
Do You Need a Prescription to Buy Glasses in Korea? (2026)
Short answer: no. You don't need a prescription from a doctor — or from home — to buy prescription glasses in Korea. Optical shops run a free eye exam on the spot and make your glasses right there, usually the same day. This surprises a lot of visitors, especially Americans, where a separate prescription is normally required.
Glasses Shopping in Hongdae: English-Speaking Shops Guide (2026)
Short answer: Hongdae is one of the best neighborhoods in Seoul for tourists to buy glasses — it's dense with optical shops, prices skew lower than Myeongdong or Gangnam, and many shops are used to younger international customers. A full pair runs roughly $40–100, often ready the same day.
Same-Day Glasses in Seoul: Where to Go If You Leave Tomorrow (2026)
Short answer: yes, you can almost certainly get glasses the same day in Seoul. Most optical shops finish single-vision prescription glasses in 30 minutes to 2 hours — walk in, get a free eye exam, pick frames, and pick them up before you leave the neighborhood. No appointment needed.