Celebrating its 25th year in South Korea, Starbucks Korea has introduced its ninth community store in the market, the Hwangudan community store in Jung-gu, Seoul, bringing the total number of Starbucks community stores in Asia to more than 50.
Starbucks’ community store model is differentiated by a commitment to supporting local suppliers as well as non-profit organisations in these respective locations.
Since its debut in South Korea in 1999 alongside licensee partner E-Mart Inc. (Shinsegae Group), Starbucks has become a pivotal player in reshaping café culture in the market.
Introducing a concept of the “third place,” Starbucks Korea has redefined coffee shops as versatile sanctuaries for work, study, socialisation and connection. Presently, more than 23,000 employees, or Green Apron partners, operate in over 1,900 stores spanning 82 cities in Korea.
“The story of Starbucks in Korea is one that is deeply linked with our longstanding partnership with the Shinsegae Group who has been instrumental in delivering the Starbucks promise to our customers, partners, communities and the environment,” said Emmy Kan, President, Starbucks Asia Pacific.
“We are proud of all that we have accomplished together in Korea, where we continue to elevate coffee culture and reimagine the third place and iconic Starbucks Experience for our customers and communities.”
