Shinsegae International has launched a new coworking space in Seoul it expects will boost its retail business.

The new 278sqm “Scale Up” space in Cheongdam-dong is targeted at startups in the lifestyle-related industry. With seven offices and meeting rooms, it is loosely modelled on the firm’s earlier coworking space S.I Lab for fashion enterprises.

“Scale Up’s main purpose is not to provide space, but rather to support startups with growth potential,” said Shinsegae International executive director Park Seung-seok. “With our infrastructure, we aim to make a win-win situation for both Shinsegae International and small startups.”

Shinsegae has reserved one of the Scale Up offices for foreign business operators visiting the country. Four other members will pay a monthly fee of KRW1.5 million (US$1280) to use the space, which includes support services such as opportunities to use the company’s retail channels and potential cooperation with Shinsegae brands.