Korea revamps Onnuri gift certificates to attract tourists and revive markets

The government is overhauling the Onnuri gift certificate program. Supports traditional markets and small businesses in Korea, by expanding digital payment options and linking to Alipay to attract more foreign visitors and stimulate spending in local shops.

What changed in the program

The Onnuri gift certificates, created in 2009 to aid traditional markets and small businesses, will undergo a major update. The overhaul includes making digital payments easier and more accessible for foreign visitors by linking the digital Onnuri QR payment system to Alipay, a widely used payment app by international travelers. The aim is to boost spending at traditional markets and small neighborhood shops while simplifying the program for users in Korea and visitors from abroad.

Who is affected

Traditional market vendors and small local shops that accept Onnuri certificates stand to benefit from increased usage. Domestic shoppers in economically vulnerable areas also participate in the program. Foreign visitors who use Alipay or other connected payment apps will gain easier access to paying with Onnuri certificates, potentially increasing tourism-related spending.

What to know next and how to use it

Key points for users: (1) Onnuri certificates come in paper and digital forms. (2) The digital system will be linkable to Alipay, so visitors can pay at participating shops with the Alipay app. (3) If you are visiting Korea, look for signs indicating Onnuri acceptance or check with a participating market about digital payment compatibility. (4) For local residents, you can keep using the certificates as before, with the added option of digital payments through the linked system. The changes are designed to be gradual, with details on how to redeem and where to use it released by authorities as the rollout progresses.

Limitations and questions to watch

Important details to confirm as the program rolls out include specific timelines for the digital-link rollout and which payment apps will be supported beyond Alipay. The article notes that past usage leaned toward traditional markets (about two-thirds of spending last year) but also included smaller neighborhood businesses, so the impact may vary by location. As with any government program, expect updates about eligibility, redemption methods, and any fees or restrictions that could affect users and vendors.

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