Starbucks Korea opens theatre-inspired community store ‘Kyungdong 1960’

(Source: Starbucks )

Starbucks Korea has unveiled the design of its fifth community store in the country dubbed ‘Kyungdong 1960’, which features a theatre-inspired theme dedicated to the heritage of the Kyundong Market.

Starbucks Kyungdong 1960 is scheduled to open its doors this Thursday (December 15). Spanning two floors, the 850sqm store has a capacity of 143 seats and a double-doored entry that was kept from the original construction. The entryway leads to the store’s centre, where the bar serves as the main stage. Customers can enjoy the view of the bar as if they are watching a play in a theatre.

The store design pays tribute to Kyungdong Theater originally built in the 1960s, which has been lost since its closure in 1994. The store preserves the architect and existing materials of the old theatre, modified with a touch of retro and modern design elements.

“This store not only stands for mutual growth with the local community but also a much-cherished meeting place for the locals,” said Jeonghyun Sohn, CEO of Starbucks Korea. “We hope to create meaningful occasions for customers of all generations and contribute to revitalising the traditional marketplace.”

Starbucks said there will be regular cultural and musical performances by local artists in the store to enhance customers’ experience.

In addition, Starbucks will donate roughly 25 cents USD for every item purchased at the Community Store to the Korean Commissions for Corporate Partnership (KCCP) to restore and upgrade the Kyundong old market’s infrastructure.

The opening is part of Starbucks Korea’s commitment to strengthening communities through the growth of the Community Store initiative.

Starbucks Korea has opened over 1750 locations in 78 cities since its first store opened in 1999. Starbucks built its first Community Store in 2014 and now operates five in the market.

The company recently opened a unique store in Daegu, named “Starbucks Hanok,” styled after old Korean traditional houses.

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