Apple Korea will open its first store in November – but the US tech giant still won’t say where…

As reported by Inside Retail Asia in September, the store will be the first official Apple retail shop in South Korea. Leading positions had been advertised since last year.

But in a statement to Reuters confirming its official launch in Korea, Apple did not disclose the location.

“We’re excited about opening our first Apple Store in Korea, one of the world’s economic centers and a leader in telecommunication and technology, with a vibrant K-culture,” Apple’s statement said.

People in Korea familiar with the matter say the store will be located on Garosu-gil Road, an upmarket, tree-lined street, with Apple Korea paying a 1.6 billion won (US$1.44 million) deposit for the lease, which runs to February 29, 2036.

South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported that construction has began at a location in a southern district of Seoul. The store is estimated to be completed by the end of November.

“We’re now hiring the team that will offer our customers in Seoul the service, education, and entertainment that is loved by Apple customers around the world,” Apple’s statement said.

Archrival Samsung has a strong presence in Apple’s home market, but until now the US company has not shown any haste to establish a full presence in Korea.