Text Slideshow
Sign up now for S$5 off shipping! (Min. spend S$30)
Holiday Period ➜  View Customer Service Schedule

How to Buy from Bunjang (번개장터)

Want to buy from Bunjang internationally? Com&Buy offers trusted proxy service to help you shop Korean streetwear, K-pop merch, and more hassle-free.


If you're an international buyer interested in Korean streetwear, K-pop collectibles, or rare secondhand treasures, Bunjang (번개장터) is a marketplace you’ll want to know about. Known as Korea’s top peer-to-peer resale platform, Bunjang is filled with great deals, limited-edition items, and hard-to-find products.

However, Bunjang is designed primarily for Korean users, with a Korean-only interface, no direct international shipping, and registration requiring a Korean phone number. This can make it tricky for overseas buyers.

Fortunately, many international shoppers use trusted Korean buying agents to help purchase and ship items globally. This guide covers everything you need to know about shopping on Bunjang as a foreign buyer — including how services like Com&Buy make it easy and secure.

What is Bunjang (번개장터) and What Makes It Popular?

Bunjang, which translates to “Lightning Market,” is one of South Korea’s largest and most popular online marketplaces for buying and selling both new and secondhand goods. Launched in 2012, it has grown rapidly to serve millions of users and hosts a vast range of items, making it Korea’s go-to platform for thrifty shoppers, collectors, and trendsetters alike.

Similar to other resale apps like Japan’s Mercari or Southeast Asia’s Carousell, Bunjang is tailored specifically for Korean consumers, featuring a uniquely local vibe and an extensive selection of products that reflect Korean pop culture and lifestyle.

Why is Bunjang So Popular?

Bunjang’s appeal comes from its fast, user-friendly app, its huge inventory, and a community-driven marketplace where users can find unique or limited-edition products at affordable prices. This has made it especially popular among younger generations who embrace sustainable shopping and enjoy hunting for rare finds.

Popular Product Categories on Bunjang

Bunjang covers a broad range of categories, but some stand out internationally due to their cultural and trend value:

  • K-pop Merchandise: Bunjang is a hotspot for K-pop fans worldwide. You can find rare albums, photocards, signed goods, and exclusive merchandise from groups like BTS, BLACKPINK, TWICE, and many others. Often, these items are limited releases or sold out in official stores, making Bunjang an invaluable resource for collectors.

  • Streetwear and Sneakers: The platform hosts a variety of Korean streetwear brands like ADER ERROR and 87MM alongside international brands like Nike, Adidas, and Supreme. Sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts frequently search Bunjang for limited drops and rare collaborations.

  • Electronics and Gadgets: Whether it’s secondhand headphones, cameras, gaming consoles, or other gadgets, Bunjang offers a wide selection at competitive prices, appealing to tech lovers looking for deals.

  • Luxury Fashion: For those interested in high-end fashion, Bunjang features luxury handbags, wallets, and accessories—often at prices below retail—drawing in resellers and fashion aficionados.

  • Everyday Items and Collectibles: Beyond the high-profile categories, Bunjang has everything from household goods to vintage collectibles, making it a versatile marketplace for a variety of buyers.

What International Buyers Can Expect from Bunjang

International buyers are especially drawn to Bunjang because of its deep inventory of culturally significant and exclusive Korean items not easily available outside Korea. However, buying directly requires workarounds due to language barriers and shipping restrictions, which is why many rely on proxy services like Com&Buy to navigate the platform and help them shop confidently.

Can International Buyers Use Bunjang?

While Bunjang is an incredibly popular marketplace within South Korea, it is primarily designed for Korean residents and domestic users. This creates several significant hurdles for international buyers who want to shop on the platform.

Key Challenges for International Buyers

  • Korean Phone Number Required for Registration
    Bunjang requires new users to verify their account with a valid Korean mobile phone number. This is a strict requirement to prevent fraudulent accounts and maintain marketplace security. Unfortunately, this means most foreign buyers cannot directly register or create an account without access to a Korean SIM card or phone number.

  • Shipping Limited to Korean Addresses
    Even if you manage to browse or purchase, Bunjang sellers ship only within Korea. There is no built-in option for international delivery or forwarding. This limits purchases to buyers who have a Korean address to receive packages.

  • Entirely Korean Language Interface
    The Bunjang website and mobile app are fully in Korean, with no official English or other language options. While browser translation tools can help, navigating menus, understanding product details, and communicating with sellers can be difficult for non-Korean speakers.

  • Payment Methods Focused on Korean Systems
    Payment on Bunjang primarily uses Korean banking methods, such as local bank transfers, KakaoPay, and Naver Pay. Credit card payments are uncommon and usually tied to Korean banks. This further complicates direct purchasing for overseas buyers.

How Do International Buyers Overcome These Barriers?

Because of these obstacles, most international shoppers cannot buy directly from Bunjang. Instead, they rely on trusted Korean proxy buying services or agents. These proxies act as intermediaries, purchasing items on your behalf within Korea and handling domestic shipping, before forwarding the goods internationally.

Why and How to Use a Proxy Service Like Com&Buy for Buying on Bunjang

Because Bunjang is designed primarily for Korean residents, international buyers face multiple barriers—language, payment, shipping, and account registration. This is where proxy buying services like Com&Buy become essential.

Why Use Com&Buy?

  • No Korean Phone Number Needed
    You don’t need a local phone or address. Com&Buy handles all local account and seller communications for you.

  • Professional Communication with Sellers
    Com&Buy’s Korean-speaking team negotiates, confirms details, and resolves issues with sellers, ensuring your orders are handled correctly.

  • Local Inspection & Repacking
    Once Com&Buy receives your items at their Korean warehouse, we can inspect the goods and verify the condition upon request (fee applies). we also offer repacking and consolidation services, allowing you to combine multiple items into one parcel to reduce international shipping costs.

  • Transparent Fees & Support
    You get a clear breakdown of costs upfront and can communicate in English, making the process smooth and trustworthy.

  • Consolidation to Reduce Shipping Costs
    Combine several items bought from different sellers into a single package to optimise shipping fees internationally.

How Does Com&Buy Work for Bunjang Buyers?

  • Send the Item Link
    Find your desired Bunjang product and send the exact URL to Com&Buy.

  • Verification & Purchase
    Com&Buy contacts the seller to verify availability and confirms the final price, including shipping within Korea.

  • Payment
    You pay Com&Buy securely through multiple options like HitPay, credit card, or bank transfer.

  • Item Receipt & Inspection
    Com&Buy receives your item at the Korean warehouse. We don’t open packages unless you request inspection (fee applies), as many customers prefer sealed delivery for a firsthand experience.

  • Repacking & International Shipping
    If you have multiple items, Com&Buy consolidates them, repacks for safety, and ships them internationally to your address.

  • Tracking & Delivery
    You receive tracking information and package photos, giving peace of mind until your order arrives.

Why Choose Com&Buy Over Other Proxy Services?

When shopping on Bunjang from overseas, selecting the right proxy service can make all the difference. Here’s why Com&Buy stands out as a trusted partner for international buyers:

  • Competitive and Transparent Pricing
    Com&Buy offers clear, upfront fees tailored specifically for Bunjang purchases. There are no hidden costs—so you know exactly what you’ll pay for purchasing, domestic shipping, and international delivery.

  • Extensive Experience with Bunjang
    With years of expertise handling Bunjang transactions, Com&Buy understands the platform’s nuances. This experience ensures smoother communication with sellers, faster order processing, and fewer mistakes.

  • Responsive English-Speaking Customer Service
    Navigating a Korean marketplace can be intimidating without Korean language skills. Com&Buy’s friendly support team communicates in English, providing personalised assistance from order placement to delivery.

  • Optional Package Inspection and Photos
    For added peace of mind, Com&Buy offers optional inspection (fee applies) services with detailed photos before shipping your package. This helps verify the item’s condition and ensures accuracy, especially for valuable or collectible items.

  • Efficient Consolidation and Optional Repacking
    To help save on international shipping costs, Com&Buy can consolidate multiple purchases into one shipment. Repacking services are available upon request to securely reduce package volume and weight, optimising your shipping fees.

By choosing Com&Buy, international buyers eliminate language and logistical barriers, reduce the risk of fraud or lost shipments, and gain reliable access to Bunjang’s vast marketplace—making Korean shopping easy, safe, and hassle-free.

How to Browse Bunjang Without Knowing Korean

Even without fluency, you can browse Bunjang’s vast inventory:

  1. Use Google Chrome’s Auto-Translate
    Access the Bunjang website https://m.bunjang.co.kr or download the app, and let Chrome translate the Korean text into your language. This helps you understand product titles, descriptions, and seller info.

  2. Search Using Korean Keywords
    To get the best results, use Korean search terms. Here are some examples:

    • BTS Photocard ➜ BTS 포토카드
    • Nike Sneakers ➜ 나이키 운동화
    • Signed Album ➜ 싸인 앨범
    • Limited Edition ➜ 한정판
    • Luxury Bag ➜ 명품 가방

    Copy and paste these into the search bar for more accurate listings.

  3. Common Bunjang Interface Terms
    Here’s a short glossary to help you navigate:

    • 새상품 ➜ New product
    • 중고상품 ➜ Used product
    • 판매자 ➜ Seller
    • 가격 ➜ Price
    • 배송비 포함 ➜ Shipping included
    • 즉시 구매 가능 ➜ Buy Now available
  4. Browsing Tips
    Here’s how to make the most of your Bunjang search:

    • Use filters to narrow down search results by price range, item condition (new or used), and seller location within Korea.
    • Check seller ratings (별점) and read any available reviews to assess reliability and trustworthiness.
    • Save or screenshot item details and share exact product links with your buying agent to avoid confusion.
    • Pay attention to item descriptions for size, color, and any noted defects.
    • Compare similar listings to get a sense of fair market price before making a purchase.
    • Watch out for listings with minimal photos or vague descriptions—they may carry higher risk.
    • Communicate clearly and promptly with your proxy service to confirm all product details before purchase.

Using a Korean Shopping Agent to Buy from Bunjang

Since direct purchases are nearly impossible without a Korean phone number and local shipping address, most international buyers turn to proxy services.

A trusted option is Com&Buy, a professional Korean buying agent that specialises in navigating local marketplaces like Bunjang.

What Are the Costs Involved?

When buying via Com&Buy or similar agents, expect the following:

  • Product Price
  • Agent Service Fee
  • Domestic Shipping (Korea) usually ₩3,000–₩5,000
  • International Shipping
  • Currency Conversion Fees

Always request a detailed fee breakdown before confirming your order to avoid surprises.

What to Watch Out For on Bunjang: Tips to Avoid Scams and Problems

While Bunjang is a fantastic platform to find unique Korean items, it’s important to remember that buyer protection is limited, especially for international shoppers. Since Bunjang mainly serves domestic buyers, overseas users face higher risks, making caution essential.

Here are some important points to keep in mind:

  1. Verify Seller Ratings and Reviews
    Bunjang shows basic seller info like transaction count and response speed. Ask your proxy to help check this before buying.

  2. Beware of Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True
    If an item’s price is drastically lower than market value, it could be a red flag. This may indicate counterfeit goods, damaged items, or potential scams. Always compare prices across listings and consult with your proxy to evaluate whether the deal is legitimate.

  3. Communicate Clearly with Your Buying Agent
    Since you’re not directly interacting with sellers, clear communication with your proxy is critical. Provide detailed instructions about product conditions, authenticity checks, packaging preferences, and shipping options. Make sure your agent confirms these details before purchase.

  4. Some Sellers May Have Limited Responsiveness
    Unlike international marketplaces with customer service guarantees, some Bunjang sellers may respond slowly or refuse cancellations or returns. This can be frustrating if you find the product isn’t as expected. Using a proxy like Com&Buy, who has local language skills and experience, helps manage these situations professionally.

  5. Inspect the Item on Arrival
    Ask your buying agent if they offer inspection services. Com&Buy, for example, offers an optional photo service (upon request and with a small fee), allowing you to verify the item’s condition and authenticity before it is shipped. This step adds a layer of security and reassurance.

Using a Reputable Proxy Service Minimises Risks

A trusted proxy service such as Com&Buy acts as your eyes and ears on the ground. They:

  • Verify seller legitimacy
    Com&Buy helps verify whether the seller is reliable by reviewing past transactions, seller history, and warning signs of suspicious listings — reducing your chances of getting scammed.

  • Communicate directly with sellers in Korean
    Their team handles all communication with Bunjang sellers in fluent Korean, ensuring accurate negotiation, clarification of product details, and faster responses.

  • Inspect items for authenticity and condition (optional)
    Upon request and for a small fee, Com&Buy can inspect your item once it arrives at their warehouse — checking for defects, authenticity, or completeness before international shipping.

  • Manage refunds or disputes when possible
    If there’s an issue — like the wrong item or a damaged product — Com&Buy may assist with contacting the seller, negotiating partial refunds, or facilitating returns when the seller allows it.

By relying on professional agents, you reduce the risk of fraud, damage, or miscommunication and enjoy a safer shopping experience on Bunjang.

Tips for a Smooth Bunjang Buying Experience

Shopping on Bunjang as an international buyer can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires attention to detail and careful planning. Here are several key tips to ensure a smooth and successful buying experience — especially when using a proxy service like Com&Buy.

  1. Always Provide the Exact Product Link
    When you find an item you want on Bunjang, copy the exact URL and send it to your proxy service. Avoid screenshots unless absolutely necessary, as product titles are often vague or duplicated across listings. Sharing the direct link helps your agent locate the correct item quickly and reduces the chance of mistakes or miscommunication.

  2. Popular items sell fast—act quickly!
    Popular listings — especially for K-pop merch, sneakers, or rare collectibles — can disappear within minutes. Bunjang users often sell one-of-a-kind items, and there’s no “hold” system. If you see something you love, submit your request to your agent (like Com&Buy) immediately to secure the item before someone else does.

  3. Communicate Clearly with Your Proxy Agent
    Make sure to tell your proxy exactly what you expect. Clarify details like:

    • Product condition (new vs used)
    • Preferred size or version (especially for albums or clothing)
    • Whether you want extra services (e.g., item photos or repacking)

    The more details you provide, the smoother the buying and shipping process will be.

  4. Combine Orders to Save on Shipping
    Shipping from Korea can get expensive if you buy items individually. One smart strategy is to purchase multiple items across different Bunjang listings, then have them consolidated into one shipment by your proxy agent. Com&Buy allows package consolidation and repacking, helping you reduce international shipping costs.

  5. Research Seller Reputation
    Bunjang provides basic seller information such as transaction history and profile details. For valuable items, it’s best to have your proxy verify the seller’s trustworthiness. Be cautious of listings with few photos or prices that appear unusually low.

FAQs

Can I register on Bunjang without a Korean phone number?
No, a Korean phone number is required for registration.

How long does international shipping take?
Typically 4–21 days after the agent ships internationally, depending on your location.

Can Com&Buy help with returns or disputes?
Returns are complicated on secondhand platforms. Com&Buy assists with communication but cannot guarantee returns.

Is it safe to buy expensive items from Bunjang?
Using a trusted proxy reduces risks. Always verify authenticity before buying.

Can I negotiate prices through Com&Buy?
Yes, agents can help communicate with sellers to negotiate prices when possible.
Ask the Seller service (Learn more)

What if the item arrives damaged?
Com&Buy inspects packages and can assist in filing claims, but coverage depends on the seller and shipping insurance.

Conclusion

While Bunjang’s Korean-only platform and local shipping restrictions make it difficult for foreigners to buy directly, proxy services like Com&Buy open the door to Korea’s vibrant secondhand market.

By leveraging Com&Buy’s expert assistance, you can shop confidently for rare K-pop merch, streetwear, and collectibles—without worrying about language barriers or shipping headaches.

Ready to start shopping on Bunjang hassle-free? Contact Com&Buy today to get your Korean proxy buying experience started.