Lotte Department Store Gwangbok launches ‘K-Food Market’ to cater to growing tourist demand

The exterior of the Lotte Department at night.

(Photo courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)

Lotte Department Store has opened a new “K-Food Market” at its Gwangbok branch in Busan, aiming to better serve the increasing number of foreign tourists visiting the area.

Located near the busy shopping districts of Gwangbok-dong and Nampo-dong, the new space brings together a range of Korean food products, including snacks, ready-to-eat items, regional specialties, and gift-friendly goods associated with Busan.

The concept focuses on convenience, allowing visitors to browse, purchase, and pick up souvenirs in a single location.

The product mix reflects ongoing demand for K-food items, particularly among tourists from Japan and Southeast Asia, who have been visiting Busan in growing numbers.

Retail trends in South Korea show department store food sections evolving beyond traditional grocery spaces.

Many are being repositioned as curated zones featuring popular eateries, dessert brands, and locally themed products, with a stronger emphasis on experience as well as retail.

Fleet Chinhae