Homeplus offers Seollal gift sets at half price

Models showcase Seollal holiday gift sets at a Homeplus branch in Gangseo-gu. (Homeplus)

South Korean discount chain Homeplus announced Friday that it would offer holiday gift sets for Seollal at up to 50 percent off for two weeks from Thursday through Jan. 30.

Preorders, which began on Dec. 12, drove overall sales growth of more than 20 percent, supported by a 46 percent increase in alcoholic beverages, a 48 percent rise in confectionery and teas, a 24 percent boost in fishery products and a 13 percent increase in fruits. Notably, sales of fruits such as Shine Muscat grapes, kiwis and tangors surged by 112 percent.

To alleviate the financial burden of holiday shopping amid rising prices, Homeplus is offering popular gift options at affordable prices after analyzing years of customer data, recent trends and the current cost of raw materials.

Customers who pay with designated credit cards or use Homeplus membership benefits can enjoy discounts of up to 50 percent. Additionally, the company is offering vouchers based on total payment amounts and interest-free installment plans for purchases over 50,000 won ($34). Online orders exceeding 100,000 won will also receive a 10 percent discount coupon.

With the Seollal holiday spanning nine days this year including weekends, Homeplus anticipates increased customer traffic.

The retailer emphasized its competitive pricing, particularly for fruit gift sets. A set featuring one Shine Muscat grape bunch and four mangoes is priced at 49,900 won with designated cards, while a set of 15 washed apples is available for 39,900 won. Tangor citrus fruits from Jeju Island are priced between 20,000 and 30,000 won, depending on the variety, with prices unaffected by market fluctuations.

With the growing popularity of alcoholic beverages as gifts, Homeplus is offering a wide range of options. A set of Casillero Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot (750ml) is priced at 59,900 won, while Johnnie Walker’s New Year’s special edition whiskey (750ml) is available for 368,900 won.

“With holiday gift prices continuing to rise, we have analyzed customer preferences, negotiated directly with producers and carefully selected raw materials to provide high-demand products at reasonable prices,” said Kim Sang-jin, head of Homeplus’ trade marketing department. “We hope customers take advantage of our diverse discounts and promotions this Seollal.”