South Korean retailers adjust operating hours for Chuseok holiday

Major retail outlets in South Korea are implementing varying operating schedules for the Chuseok holiday. Most large department stores, including Lotte, Shinsegae, and Hyundai, will close on the day before and the day of Chuseok.

Specifically, Lotte Department Store is closing 29 locations, including its main branches in Seoul, on September 24 and 25. Shinsegae Department Store is closing 11 locations, such as the Gangnam and Gwangju branches, on the same dates. Hyundai Department Store will also close 11 locations, including The Hyundai Seoul, during this period.

In contrast, large hypermarkets and discount stores maintain more flexible schedules. While some E-mart and Lotte Mart locations will close or operate with reduced hours on Chuseok day, many others remain open to accommodate holiday shoppers. For example, 87 E-mart stores will operate on a shortened schedule, and 52 Homeplus stores will remain open on Chuseok day.

To attract holiday visitors, retailers are launching various promotional events, including pop-up stores, cultural experiences, and discounts on indoor play facilities and dining. Lotte Department Store is hosting a ‘LALIGA WEBTOON’ pop-up store, while Shinsegae is offering discounts on various family-oriented attractions.