Before K-pop made its way to the American Music Awards, and before words like ‘kimchi’ and ‘bulgogi’ made their way onto restaurant menus, Korea was known for its high-fashion and various cosmetics. So of course, as a foreigner either travelling or living in Korea, you will want to take advantage and shop-til-you-drop. Only problem is: how exactly do you shop in a country where neither the clothes or products were intended for you to wear or use?

The answer is simple: You read this post.

No, but in all seriousness, you have to be smart. You cannot just go into a store and expect them to carry your size, because odds are they won’t. Especially in the boutiques or street stalls, where there is no such thing as ‘S, M, L, XL’ because in Korea one size is apparently supposed to fit all.

Even though it doesn’t.

Because some of us have larger chests or broader shoulders, thicker thighs or a bigger ass, and while there is absolutely nothing wrong with any of those things fact is that Koreans are typically built straight with no complicated curves.

So when you are out on the streets of Hongdae or wandering around Garosugil, I would recommend sticking to looser fitting shirts and sweaters, items that are a little bit less tight on the body unless you are really familiar with your shape and know what will and won’t be flattering for it. And as far as weight goes, I wouldn’t worry too much. I mean, I am 5’5 and 150lbs and at no point did I buy something that was too small for me, and that includes the Korean free size.

So in conclusion: know the clothes, and always remember that just because you got some extra cushion for the pushin’ doesn’t mean you are any less beautiful.

#ProTip