CreatripTeam

Famous bakeries in Seoul draw long queues and high prices as young customers seek ‘experience’—stylish interiors, unique toppings and SNS-worthy food—paying up to 7,000–8,000 won for specialty bagels and pastries. At the same time, demand for low-cost options rises: supermarket and convenience-store private brand (PB) breads, often priced around 2,000 won, are selling strongly after promotions and amid rising overall bread prices (“breadflation”). This polarization squeezes middle-tier franchise bakeries (e.g., Paris Baguette, Tous Les Jours), which struggle with standardized production, crowded store networks and limited product differentiation. Experts say success now depends on distinctive quality, innovative flavors and a compelling in-store experience rather than just bread alone.