An escape from feeling lonely: Seoul 'convenience stores' fighting isolation

By: Jina Jong

Published: August 8, 2025

Seoul, South Korea, is combating the isolating effects of urbanization by transforming its convenience stores into communal gathering hubs. These stores offer an array of activities, such as chess boards and book nooks, creating a unique community-centered atmosphere. This shift away from traditional convenience stores is also seen in the employment of full-time cleaners and gardeners, emphasizing the importance of the aesthetic and social experience.

Not only do these stores offer typical convenient items and a unique experience, but the city's initiative has also created job opportunities, especially for the youth and elderly populations. With the rise of automation and e-commerce, convenience stores faced the threat of job loss. Still, the unique approach to these stores reaps the benefits of combating loneliness and creating robust communities while providing employment opportunities.

The transformation of convenience stores has sparked interest globally, with cities worldwide experimenting with similar concepts. As we navigate the challenges of urbanization and the evolving role of community spaces, initiatives offer a glimpse of how innovative solutions can foster social connections and strengthen the fabric of society.