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Why Heated Throw Blankets are Trending
As we move through January 2026, heated throw blankets have become the must-have home accessory. Unlike the bulky, stiff electric blankets of the past, the new generation of throws focuses on aesthetic appeal, ultra-soft microfiber materials, and "smart" heating zones. In the US, brands like Sunbeam, Westinghouse, and Eddie Bauer have dominated the market with energy-efficient models that cost pennies to run compared to central heating.
For shoppers in South Korea, these items offer a level of variety and technical sophistication that local department stores often lack. However, the price difference between a US retail price and a Korean boutique import price is staggering.
The Price Gap: Korea Local Market vs. USA
If you walk into a premium department store in Seoul or browse local Korean e-commerce platforms, you will notice that high-end imported heated throws are often marked up by 50% to 100%. A blanket that retails for $60 USD in the US frequently appears on Korean sites for ₩150,000 or more.
Smart shoppers are bypassing these local markups by buying directly from US giants like Amazon, Target, or Walmart. By using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway, you can access the same sales and clearance events that US residents enjoy, often securing premium blankets for under $40 during seasonal promotions.
Calculating the Real Cost of Importing
Before you hit the checkout button, you need to do the math. The total cost consists of the product price, domestic US shipping (often free), and international shipping to Korea. You should use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight of the blanket, which typically ranges from 3 to 6 pounds.
Even with shipping costs factored in, the total usually lands well below the Korean retail price. Furthermore, if you are a frequent shopper, you can leverage Prime membership benefits to reduce shipping rates and consolidate multiple items into one box, further lowering the cost per item.
Logistics: Getting Your Package to South Korea
Most US retailers do not offer direct shipping to South Korea, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where shipping from USA to South Korea via a professional forwarding service becomes essential. A forwarder provides you with a US address, receives your package, and then ships it to your doorstep in Korea via premium couriers.
If you have questions about the process, you can always visit the FAQ section to understand how tracking and insurance work for your high-value textile goods.
Customs, Taxes, and Essential Technical Warnings
When importing to South Korea, you must be aware of two critical factors: customs thresholds and technical specifications.
1. Customs Thresholds
For goods imported from the US, South Korea generally allows a de minimis value of $200 USD (including the cost of the item and domestic US shipping). If your total order exceeds this, you will be hit with import duties. Check our guide on import duties to ensure you don't get an unexpected bill from Korea Customs Service.
2. Prohibited Items and Safety
While most blankets are safe to ship, some specialized medical-grade heating pads might have restrictions. You might also like our guide on prohibited items to ensure your specific brand of heated throw is cleared for transport.
3. Voltage (110V vs 220V)
Crucial Warning: US electronics operate on 110V/60Hz. South Korea uses 220V. Most heated throw blankets are NOT dual-voltage. You will need a step-down transformer (변압기) to use a US heated blanket in Korea. Factor the cost of a small transformer into your budget if you don't already own one.
Final Smart Shopper Verdict
Importing a heated throw blanket from the USA in 2026 is the most cost-effective way to stay warm. By avoiding the "Korea Premium" and using a dedicated forwarding service, you can save roughly ₩40,000 to ₩70,000 per blanket. Just remember to keep your total order under $200 to avoid taxes and ensure you have a transformer ready for the 110V plug.
