I have heard that you can buy contact lenses in Korea without a prescription.?

Yes, it's true! Korea is one of the easiest places in the world to buy contact lenses. Here's the full breakdown:

Do you need a prescription?

• No. You can buy contact lenses without a prescription in Korea.
• Optician shops will do a free eye measurement on the spot and sell you lenses immediately.
• However, if it's your first time wearing contacts, I'd recommend visiting an eye doctor first for a proper fitting. A basic eye exam costs around 10,000-20,000 won.

Where to buy

• Optician shops: Found on almost every street. Free eye measurement, buy on the spot. Regular daily lenses: 15,000-25,000 won per box (30 lenses).
• Olive Young: Great selection of color lenses. Daily color lenses: 10,000-20,000 won per box.
• Online: Lensme, Lenstown, Coupang. Often cheaper than in-store.

Color lenses (circle lenses)

• Korea is the world capital of color lenses. Huge variety of colors and styles.
• Popular brands: O-Lens, Lensme, i-DOL Lens, Clalen
• Available at Olive Young, optician shops, and online
• Daily disposables are the safest option

Things foreigners should know

• Korean lenses typically have a base curve (BC) of 8.5-8.6mm. If you have larger eyes, this might feel tight. Look for 8.7-8.8mm options.
• Buy preservative-free eye drops at any pharmacy for dry eyes. No prescription needed.
• Don't sleep in lenses not designed for overnight wear.
• For astigmatism lenses, you may need to visit an optician shop since the options online are more limited.