JDC Opens Duty-free Shop for Koreans Today

Duty-free shops that Koreans can use open in Jeju Island from 24th.

Jeju Development Center (JDC) carried out the opening ceremony of `JDC tax free shop` on the 23rd, which is for Koreans as well as foreigners, with minister of construction and transportation, Im In-taek and chief of JDC, Jung Jong-hwan attending it, in Jeju airport`s waiting room at 10:00a.m.

JDC has three duty free shops, one in the departure waiting room on the first floor of Jeju domestic airport (490 pyeong), the other at coast terminal for passenger (53 pyeong) and the third one at domestic·abroad passenger terminal (60 pyeong) in Jeju port.

Inhabitants of Jeju island, other Koreans and foreigners above 19 years old who go to other domestic places by airplane or ship from Jeju Island can use this facility. Currently, Koreans can use duty free shops of airport or shopping mall while traveling abroad. Below are responses on questions regarding the duty free shop.

-What is the meaning of 19 years old here?

“If Koreans reach the age of 19 (20 or 21 in Korean age according to their month of birth), he/she can use it in his/her birth year. ”

-How much worth of goods can people buy?

“One person can buy 350,000 worth of goods at once. But only one bottle of liquor and 10 packages of cigarette are allowed. He/ she can buy four times a year.”

-Which goods are available?

“170 famous brands and 4,000 items in Korea and abroad such as western liquor, cigarettes, cosmetics, etc.”

-How much cheap?

“It is discounted 20~50% than in the local market.”

-What is the mode of payment?

“By cash as well as by credit card. In case of cash, not only Korean won but also Yen or U.S dollars will be accepted.”

-Is the customs procedure required?

“Not required. ”

-Is online sale on Internet available?

“It will be available from early next year when we open `JCD duty free shop on internet `. People can buy goods through Internet, but they must come to take goods at Jeju tax free shop personally.”

-What is the punishment if a person buys or sells duty free goods in other person`s name?

“The person will not be allowed to use duty free shop for one year from the day of buying and will be punished according to customs law.”

Jae-Seong Hwang jsonhng@donga.com