Foreign Shoppers Drive Record Sales in Busan, Outpacing Seoul
Creatrip Team
a month ago
Busan’s retail sector is seeing a sharp rise in foreign customer spending, outstripping some key Seoul areas. Major department stores reported big jumps: Shinsegae Centum City’s foreign sales soared 226%, surpassing Shinsegae’s national average and even Myeongdong. Lotte Department Store Busan saw a 125% increase, close to Seoul flagship levels, while Lotte Premium Outlets Dongbusan rose 150%. Convenience stores and supermarkets also benefited—GS25’s foreign cashless payments in Busan rose 128.3%, and Lotte Mart Zeta-plex Gwangbok’s foreign-sales share grew from 10% to 17%. The growth follows a 44.9% surge in foreign visits to Busan (Jan–May), boosted by repeat visits (N-th trips) and more cruise port calls. Retailers are responding with targeted services like GS25’s expanded K-Station (K-food and souvenirs) and foreigner-only memberships at department stores. Industry groups expect foreign spending to remain a key growth driver, and plan more marketing and services in regions popular with tourists.
