GS Retail launches new transport card for tourists

GS Retail, the operator of the convenience store chain GS25, launched a transportation card exclusively tailored to foreign tourists, together with transportation card provider Loca Mobility.

The "Hanbok Choonsik Loca M" card, a new transportation card exclusively for foreign tourists [GS RETAIL]

GS Retail, the operator of the convenience store chain GS25, launched a transportation card exclusively tailored to foreign tourists, together with transportation card provider Loca Mobility.

Named the "Hanbok Choonsik Loca M" card, the card offers not only transportation services but also extends benefits to establishments such as restaurants and cafes. It is sold at 5,000 won ($3.77).

The card features Choonsik, a popular character from Kakao Friends, dressed in traditional Korean attire hanbok.

Cardholders can enjoy discounts of up to 20 percent at some 180 establishments across the country, from popular dining venues like Seoul 88 Beer and Cafe True Us, to duty-free stores like Shinsegae DFS and retail chains like ABC Mart. Upon purchasing the card, users can access the discounts coupons through QR codes affixed to the product packaging.

The decision for the launch coincides with the significant rise in foreign tourist arrivals, observed in the first half of this year. Tourist numbers surged by 447 percent, reaching around 4.43 million visitors, according to the Korea Tourism Organization. GS25 said it also saw a 60.4 percent increase in Alipay payment transactions during the same period.

The Hanbok Choonsik Loca M card is currently available at 235 select GS25 stores in tourism hotspots like Myeong-dong, Itaewon, Hongdae, and Seoul Station. GS25 intends to expand card availability to more stores by year-end.

BY SEO JI-EUN [seo.jieun1@joongang.co.kr]