Starbucks Tackles “Cafe Study” Trend with Time Limits in Seoul Store
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Teh Rise of “Kargong” adn Its Impact on Cafes
The increasing trend of “Kargong” – individuals using cafes as study spaces for extended periods – has prompted a Starbucks location in Seoul to implement a new policy. This move comes as cafes grapple with balancing customer service and maximizing seating turnover.
Seoul Starbucks Implements 30-Minute Seat Limit
A recent online post showcased a notice displayed in a Seoul Starbucks, stating that seats left unattended for more than 30 minutes may be cleared by staff. The notice specifies that belongings will be stored within the store for safekeeping.
If you are emptying your seat for more than 30 minutes, your partner can organize your seat.
This particular store, a relatively new establishment near a subway station, has reportedly experienced a high volume of customers, including those engaging in “Kargong.”
Not a Company-Wide Policy
It’s meaningful to note that this policy is not a universal Starbucks initiative. A Starbucks representative clarified that the measure was implemented specifically at this location due to ongoing issues with seat hogging and is not indicative of a broader change in Starbucks’ operational policies.
The store has been attached to the store because of the stolen issue. It is irrelevant to the starbucks operation policy.Starbucks Official
Public Reaction and the Broader “Kargong” Debate
The proclamation has garnered positive reactions online, with many expressing support for similar measures in other Starbucks locations. The debate surrounding “Kargong” is not new, with previous incidents highlighting the issue.
Such as,last year,a Starbucks in Andong,North Gyeongsang Province,faced criticism after a customer was seen using a printer and spreading out numerous documents,effectively occupying multiple seats for an extended period.
The Economics of Cafe Usage
Studies,such as one by the Korea Food Industry Research Institute,have explored the economic impact of prolonged cafe stays. their research suggests that a customer needs to spend approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes in a cafe to justify the cost of a ₩4,100 (approximately $3 USD) cup of coffee. Staying longer than this period can result in a financial loss for the business.
Cafes Adapt to the “kargong” Challenge
In response to the “Kargong” phenomenon, some cafes have begun removing power outlets or charging fees for their use. One cafe introduced a system where customers pay ₩990 (approximately $0.75 USD) per hour for outlet access via a QR code system.
