Korean products — from K-fashion and K-beauty to electronics and lifestyle gadgets — are in high demand among Singapore shoppers. But when it comes to getting these items delivered, you’re often faced with two options: direct international shipping from the retailer or using a proxy buying service such as Buy&Ship.
Both methods have their advantages and challenges, but which is truly better for Singaporeans looking for value, reliability, and convenience? This guide breaks down the differences between proxy buying and direct shipping so you can make the smartest choice.
What Is Korean Proxy Buying?
Proxy buying means you submit a product link to a trusted service provider like Buy&Ship, who purchases the item on your behalf in Korea and forwards it to Singapore.
- Who it’s for: Shoppers who want access to Korean websites that don’t ship overseas.
- How it works: Register → Submit product URL → Pay in SGD → Buy&Ship purchases → Items arrive at Korean warehouse → Consolidated shipping to Singapore.
- Key advantage: Full access to Korean e-commerce, even for sites without international shipping.
What Is Direct Shipping?
Direct shipping refers to ordering from a Korean retailer that provides its own international delivery service.
- Who it’s for: Shoppers buying from brands with global shipping options (e.g., Olive Young Global, Stylenanda Global).
- How it works: Add to cart → Enter Singapore address → Pay shipping fee → Item shipped directly.
- Key advantage: No middleman, straightforward process.
Comparing Proxy Buying vs Direct Shipping
| Factor | Korean Proxy Buying (via Buy&Ship) | Direct Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Website Access | Shop from any Korean site, even those without global shipping | Limited to retailers that offer international delivery |
| Pricing | Lower domestic prices; 6% service fee + international shipping | Often higher due to inflated global prices |
| Consolidation | Combine multiple orders into one shipment to save money | Each order ships separately with individual shipping fees |
| Payment | Pay in SGD through Buy&Ship, no foreign currency hassle | Pay in KRW/USD, may incur foreign transaction fees |
| Returns | Eligible for 7-day free returns (new items only) | Returns are complex and costly internationally |
| Delivery Speed | 1–2 weeks after consolidation | Varies; sometimes faster, but usually more expensive |
| Flexibility | Access to limited editions, local promotions, niche brands | Restricted to what the global site offers |
Why Proxy Buying Is Usually Better for Singapore Shoppers
- Access Beyond Borders
Direct shipping is limited to certain “global” platforms, while proxy buying gives you complete access to Korea’s domestic market. - Save with Consolidation
Direct shipping means paying international delivery on each parcel. With Buy&Ship, you can consolidate multiple orders — sneakers from Musinsa, skincare from Olive Young, and gadgets from Coupang — into a single affordable shipment. - Transparent Pricing in SGD
No hidden forex charges. Buy&Ship calculates everything in Singapore dollars, including product price, service fee, and international delivery. - Exclusive Access to Limited Editions
Special collabs or event-only products often never make it to global websites. Proxy buying lets you secure these items directly from Korea. - Better Control of Shipping Costs
International courier fees are often higher than the product itself. Buy&Ship’s weight-based pricing and consolidation model makes importing more affordable.
When Direct Shipping Might Work
To be fair, direct shipping can still be useful in certain cases:
- If you’re buying a single lightweight item.
- If the retailer is offering global free shipping promotions.
- If warranty coverage depends on buying through the official global store.
But in most cases, direct shipping comes at a premium compared to proxy buying.
How to Use Buy&Ship for Korean Proxy Buying
- Sign Up – Register for a Buy&Ship Singapore account.
- Find Your Item – Shop Korean platforms like Musinsa, W Concept, or Gmarket.
- Submit Product Links – Paste them into Buy&Ship’s proxy shopping form.
- Pay in SGD – Product cost + 6% service fee.
- Buy&Ship Purchases on Your Behalf – Orders arrive at Buy&Ship’s Korean warehouse.
- Consolidate & Ship – Merge multiple parcels to save on international fees.
- Receive at Home – Trackable, secure delivery to your doorstep.
Real Example: Singapore Shopper’s Choice
A shopper bought:
- 2 pairs of sneakers from Musinsa
- Skincare from Olive Young
- Electronics accessory from Coupang
- Direct Shipping Costs: Over SGD 140 if shipped separately.
- Buy&Ship Proxy Buying: Total of SGD 65 after consolidation.
- Savings: Nearly 55% cheaper.
Common Concerns Addressed
Q1: Is proxy buying safe?
Yes. Buy&Ship handles thousands of international orders with secure logistics and tracking.
Q2: What about returns?
Eligible unused products qualify for 7-day free returns with Buy&Ship. Note that food, perishable items, or second-hand goods are not returnable.
Q3: How long does it take?
1–2 weeks after items arrive at the Korean warehouse.
Q4: Is direct shipping ever cheaper?
Only if the retailer runs a free global shipping promo or the product is light and inexpensive.
Why Buy&Ship Is the Smarter Choice
- 6% service fee only
- Transparent SGD billing
- Parcel consolidation saves money
- Access to all Korean sites, not just global versions
- Optional repacking for fragile items
- Trusted by thousands of Singapore users
For most Singapore shoppers, proxy buying through Buy&Ship offers the best balance of price, convenience, and access.
Korean products are just a few clicks away — but how you choose to ship them makes all the difference.
- Direct shipping may suit simple, one-off purchases.
- Proxy buying via Buy&Ship opens up the full Korean market, lowers costs through consolidation, and gives you access to exclusive items.
For Singaporeans serious about K-fashion, K-beauty, or tech gadgets, Buy&Ship’s proxy shopping service is the clear winner.