How convenience stores become big names in Asia - Seoul capitalises on demand for sophisticated outlets

Affordable choice: Shoppers in the Myeongdong district of Seoul. Convenience stores in South Korea experienced rapid growth during the economic crisis in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as ready-made meals such as instant cup noodles became popular. — AFP

SEOUL: South Korean convenience store operators facing a saturated market at home are now eyeing expansion overseas, especially in South-East and Central Asia where rapid economic growth and the popularity of South Korean content are leading to a growing demand for South Korean-style comprehensive convenience stores.

Currently, the nation’s top two chains, BGF Retail and GS25, operate a combined 1,168 convenience stores overseas.