Apple opening new Gangnam shop, its fifth store in Korea

Apple will open a new Apple Store at the end of March in Gangnam District, one of Seoul’s most affluent neighborhoods known internationally through K-pop hit “Gangnam Style.”

Passersby walk by Apple Store in Gangnam District on Wednesday [YONHAP]

Apple will open a new Apple Store at the end of March in Gangnam District, one of Seoul’s most affluent neighborhoods known internationally through K-pop hit “Gangnam Style.”

The company offered a glimpse into what the Apple Gangnam will look like Wednesday ahead of the opening set for March 31. For the opening day, visitors must make reservations online.

The facade of the new shop is made with frit and a mirrored coating treatment that changes hues at different times of the day. When a reporter visited the retail shop during the preview session, the Apple logo was in violet, magenta and orange.

Customers browse Apple products at Apple Gangnam on Wednesday. [YONHAP]

A notable feature is the Apple Pickup station. A number of drawers connect the retail space and warehouse of the store. As soon as in-stock items are placed in the drawers, staff can bring them straight to customers, saving time.

The store has different experience zones, where customers can try the company’s music and streaming services on top of shopping for hardware: smartphones, tablets and laptops.

Besides selling products, the Apple Gangnam will provide instructions for its products and services, including newly-introduced Apple Pay.

Pickup Station at Apple Gangnam [APPLE]

The store has nearly 150 retail team members, and a dozen languages are spoken, according to Apple.

“At Apple, we’re always innovating to provide the best experience for our customers, and we are so excited to open Apple Gangnam and share the best of Apple with even more people in Seoul,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of retail. “Our incredible team members look forward to connecting with customers and helping them find new ways to unleash their creativity with our amazing products and services.”

The site will be a fifth Apple Store in Korea, following latest openings in Songpa District, southern Seoul and Myeongdong, central Seoul. BY PARK EUN-JEE [park.eunjee@joongang.co.kr]