Complete Guide to Sangsaeng Payback: Online Merchants, Cashback Conditions, and Application Steps

To boost consumer spending and support local economies, Korea’s central and local governments have introduced a range of incentive programs. Among them, Sangsaeng Payback refunds a portion of eligible spending that meets specific criteria, which is why it has drawn so much interest. Yet when you actually try to use it, you may wonder which online stores accept it, what the exact refund conditions are, and whether the application process is complicated.

This guide answers those questions so you can get 100% of the benefits. We’ll cover the core concept of Sangsaeng Payback, where you can use it online, detailed refund/eligibility rules, and a simple, step-by-step application method—all in a practical Q&A style.

Some official guidance on Sangsaeng Payback may close or change soon. Check the latest details now.

See the latest info at GOV.KR

What is Sangsaeng Payback?

Sangsaeng Payback is a program designed to stimulate consumption and revive local economies. If you spend within a designated period and meet the specified criteria, a portion of the spending is refunded as cash or points. Beyond encouraging purchases, the program aims to support small businesses, protect neighborhood markets, and strengthen the virtuous cycle of the economy. For instance, it has been used to help revive domestic demand after COVID-19.

The key idea is that consumers feel a tangible benefit from everyday spending while helping energize local businesses. Many implementations steer usage toward designated online or offline merchants to focus support on specific sectors.

Where can I use it online?

You can use Sangsaeng Payback not only at offline merchants but also at a broad range of online outlets. However, it is not accepted everywhere. Only merchants and platforms designated by the government or local authorities are eligible. Common categories include:

• Region-run online malls: City/county specialty stores and online traditional-market shops operated or partnered by local governments.
• Major marketplaces (designated sellers only): Certain stores or categories within large platforms such as Coupang, Naver SmartStore, or Gmarket.
• Food delivery apps: Eligible merchants on apps like Baemin, Yogiyo, etc., where local currency or Sangsaeng Payback payment is supported.
• Online education & culture: Some e-learning platforms and ticketing sites for movies/shows (varies by local government).

Before you pay, confirm that the checkout page lists Sangsaeng Payback or local-currency payment as an available method. Because designated merchants can change with policy updates, check the latest lists regularly.

Examples of major online use cases

Category	Examples	Notes
Regional specialty malls	City/County agricultural & specialty stores	Often operated by local governments; supports local producers.
Large marketplaces	Naver SmartStore (select sellers), Coupang (select categories)	Look for “local currency” or “Sangsaeng Payback” indicators.
Delivery/Dining apps	Baemin, Yogiyo, Coupang Eats (eligible merchants)	Select the supported payment option in-app.
Education/Culture online	Select online course sites, ticket platforms	Coverage varies by municipality—check in advance.

What are the refund conditions?

Eligibility conditions depend on timing and local budgets, but generally include the following:

1. Who can apply: Korean residents above a certain age (e.g., 19+) and, in some cases, residents of a specific locality.
2. Minimum spending threshold: Refunds usually require meeting a monthly/period minimum (e.g., KRW 200,000 in a month).
3. Refund rate & limits: A percentage of spending (e.g., 10% or 20%) is refunded, with monthly or program caps (e.g., up to KRW 30,000).
4. Merchant restrictions: Certain categories (e.g., big-box retail, department stores, entertainment) may be excluded; online acceptance is limited to designated outlets.
5. Application window & method: You must apply within the official window and submit any required information/docs online or offline.

Because these details change with each policy round, always confirm the latest official announcement. Refund rate and cap are especially important since they determine the size of your benefit.

Refund conditions at a glance

Item	Typical Rules	What to Check
Eligibility	19+ Korean residents (some local residency rules)	Whether it uses your registered domicile as the criterion.
Minimum spend	KRW 200,000–500,000+ per month (varies)	Family aggregation and excluded categories.
Refund rate	~7–10% (can be higher during special periods)	May change by budget/timeline.
Refund cap	KRW 30,000–50,000 per month (plus overall caps)	Personal vs. household limits.
Excluded uses	Big-box, department stores, nightlife, online gambling, etc.	See the official exclusion list each round.
Payout method	Cash transfer or local-currency points	Available payout types at application time.

Application rounds may end soon. Review the steps now so you don’t miss out.

Check the application guide on Korea Policy Briefing

How do I apply?

Most rounds make the process straightforward. There are typically two channels—online (recommended) and offline:

1. Read the official notice: Start by checking the latest municipal or central-government notice for the round’s dates, eligibility, and required docs.
2. Online application (recommended):
   • Apply via the dedicated website or mobile app, if provided.
   • Complete identity verification (mobile ID, public certificate, etc.) and enter personal info (name, RRN, contact, refund bank account).
   • Upload any required proof (e.g., income or residence) if requested.
3. Offline application:
   • Residents who can’t apply online can visit designated desks (community centers, district offices).
   • Bring your ID and any required documents; staff will help you submit.
4. Review & refund: Applications are reviewed for eligibility. If approved, refunds are paid to the specified bank account or credited as local-currency points (typically within days to a few weeks).

Double-check every field—especially your bank details—to avoid delays or rejections.

Tips for making the most of Sangsaeng Payback

With a little planning, you can significantly increase the benefit:

• Plan monthly spending: Since caps apply, plan around the threshold that maximizes your monthly refund (e.g., spend KRW 300,000 to get a 10% refund of KRW 30,000).
• Prioritize designated online outlets: Check whether your go-to marketplaces or delivery apps are eligible and pay using the supported method when they are.
• Stack discounts when allowed: Many rounds allow stacking with card discounts or coupons—verify and save even more.
• Monitor policy updates: Refund rates, caps, and merchant lists can change—review announcements each round.

Comparison: Sangsaeng Payback vs. other programs

Item	Sangsaeng Payback	Local Currency	Credit-card Cashback
Goal	Stimulate spending; support local economy	Support local businesses and markets	Card issuer marketing; general spending
Benefit type	Refund of a portion of spending	Bonus on prepaid top-ups	Cashback/points on card spend
Where usable	Designated online/offline merchants	Merchants within a locality (some online)	General card merchants (with exclusions)
Rate	~7–10% (varies by round)	~5–10% at charge time	~0.5–2% (card-dependent)
Pros	Clear, tangible refunds on everyday spend	Instant discount feel; supports locality	Wide acceptance; extra card perks
Cons	Must track eligibility/timing	Usable only within the locality	Lower rates; possible annual fees

Personal take

At first, Sangsaeng Payback felt complicated. After a few rounds, it proved simple and rewarding—especially for everyday online essentials at eligible outlets. With some planning, the monthly refund offset a regular household expense, and it felt good to support neighborhood businesses at the same time. If you haven’t tried it yet, review the current round’s rules and give it a go—you may be pleasantly surprised.

Upcoming adjustments to Sangsaeng Payback are expected. Review now so you don’t miss changes that affect your benefits.

Find more details on local government sites