Grocery and bakery shopping

South Korea features several prominent supermarket chains. Emart operates as large hypermarkets offering a broad product selection. Emart24 functions as convenience stores, akin to 7-Eleven, for smaller, quicker purchases. Additional chains like TOP MART are also present. Discount retailers such as NO BRAND should be approached with caution regarding product quality versus price. Utilizing mapping services to search for 'MART' can help identify nearby grocery stores.

For low-fat Korean sweets, consider Injeolmi (a type of chewy rice cake often dusted with bean powder) and roasted chestnuts. Tteok, or Korean rice cakes, also offer various sweet options, some of which are fried for a distinct texture and flavor.

In Seoul, beyond 24-hour convenience stores, major supermarket chains include Lotte Supermarket, GS Fresh, E-mart (non-24hr), and Korea Mart. Homeplus stores have also reopened after temporary closures. Searching for specific brands like 'Emart' or 'Lotte Mart' on maps is an effective way to locate them.

Maxim 3-in-1 coffee may be available at Incheon Airport's duty-free shops, but expect inflated prices. Purchasing multi-packs from convenience stores (like CU) is generally more economical. Single sachets might be less common post-security.

Daiso stores sometimes offer food items. For example, 'injolmi' (a type of sweet rice cake) might be available, though its sweetness can vary. Some reviewers found it not sweet enough, while others described a slightly sweet version. It's important to note that Asian sweets often differ significantly from Western counterparts in terms of sweetness.

A review of items ordered at Paris Baguette: The egg tart was tasty, the hotdog was slightly sweet, and the churros were described as chewy and not as sweet as expected, resembling undercooked dough. Sandwiches and salads are also recommended.

For grocery delivery in South Korea beyond Coupang, 'Zetta' is the dedicated delivery app for Lotte Mart. Users recommend it for better variety and specific store discounts.

To receive discounts at Lotte Mart, customers typically need a store loyalty card or a specific membership program. Inquire at the customer service desk about obtaining a temporary card or if any current promotions apply without one. Some discounts may also be linked to payment methods.

Nighttime access to some 24/7 GS25 stores in South Korea requires authentication. Users must scan a local Korean payment card (such as Wowpass) at the entrance terminal to unlock the door for self-service shopping.

A review of Paris Baguette items includes: egg tart (tasty but with an unusual element), churros (described as chewy and doughy, not sweet like Japanese versions), and a hotdog (sweet). Sandwiches and salads are also noted as being very good.

Specific grocery store for Russian/Eastern European products in Seoul: 'Medovik' store located in the Dongdaemun area offers items like sour cream (smetana), cottage cheese (tvorog), condensed milk, sprats, and familiar types of bread/flour products.

The price difference for Korean instant noodles (ramen) between Russia and Korea can be attributed to shipping costs, import duties (higher for non-friendly countries like Korea), and retail markups. While cheaper in Korea, the taste may vary. Russian prices reflect these added costs.