The price of whisky at duty-free shops in Incheon International Airport is more expensive than that of major airports in Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, while the price of cigarette packs is relatively inexpensive.
Domestic travelers' favorite whisky brand, Ballantine 17 (750ml), is sold at US$53 at Incheon, compared with US$48.2 in Singapore's Changi and Japan's Kansai Airports. The duty-free shops are also selling Chivas Regal Royal Salute 21 (700ml) at US$79, higher than the US$74.7 in Singapore and US$73.5 in Japan, but lower than the US$80 at Hong Kong's Chek Lap Kok Airport.
However, the price of imported cigarette packs at Incheon is lower than that of foreign airports, with 10 packs of Marlboro costing US$12, compared to US$12.8 in Hong Kong and US$15.5 in Japan. One pack of Mild Seven cigarettes, last year's bestseller, is also sold at US$12, lower than the US$13.3 in Japan and US$12.9 in Hong Kong.
The price of world-famous perfume Channel No. 5 (7.5ml) is US$69, less expensive than the US$74.4 in Hong Kong and US$73.5 in Japan, but more expensive than the US$63.9 in Singapore. When it comes to other cosmetics, Lancome powder in Incheon costs US$24, much lower than the US$34.6 in Hong Kong, US$29.2 in Singapore, and US$31.9 in Japan.
An official at Incheon airport said the price gap stems from the distribution process, and the terms and conditions between the duty-free shop and the airport, and foreign currency exchange rates.
Meanwhile, duty-free products being sold on flights are less expensive than the duty-free shops in the airports because there are no operating costs and employees involved. KAL and Asiana sell Ballantine 17, Chivas Regal Royal Salute 21 and Mild Seven cigarette packs at US$51, US$78, and US$11, respectively, all down between US$2 and US$1.
