Getting prescription glasses made in Korea: still good value in 2026?
On the Tripadvisor South Korea forum, a traveller with a three-week trip asked whether ordering glasses in Seoul is still worth it. Their spec was demanding: varifocal, light-reactive lenses that darken in the sun, anti-reflective coating, and small children's-size frames without cartoon characters. Older posts had pointed to one well-known optical chain.
What the replies said
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One person was sceptical: Korea isn't a bargain destination in general, and they buy glasses online from abroad instead.
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A long-time buyer said Seoul is still one of the best places for quality and value. The chain is well known but not the cheapest. By their estimate, about US$200 gets high-index varifocal lenses from major lens brands, but shops make their margin on frames and will push fashion brands, so ask for cheaper local frames. Allow about a week.
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Another had glasses made twice in Myeongdong: once ready the same afternoon, once posted on a week later.
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For simple short-sighted lenses, same-day is common; bifocal or astigmatic lenses take a few days to a week. Shops can deliver to your hotel or post them to you.
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The best update came from a UK traveller: varifocal glasses with frames for about £90 per pair at a Busan branch of the chain, ready in two days. They re-tested her eyes even though she brought a prescription; frames were cheap and most of the cost was the lenses.
Desk note Bring your most recent prescription, including your pupillary distance. The eye test at an optical shop is for making lenses; it isn't a check of eye health, so keep your regular eye-doctor visits at home.
Have you had glasses made in Korea? How long did it take and was it worth it?
Original thread: Tripadvisor South Korea forum — prescription glasses in Korea
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