Starbucks Korea has introduced its inaugural pet-friendly store, the Guri Galmae DT store in Guri, Gyeonggi Province, catering to the growing population of pet owners in the country. The two-story café, spanning 645 square meters, features a dedicated 166-square-meter pet zone on the second floor, complete with pet-friendly seating, leash storage, and a lounge area for patrons to walk their pets. The first floor is reserved for the preparation of coffees and beverages, maintaining cleanliness by restricting pet access. Certain dog breeds deemed dangerous under South Korea's Animal Protection Act, as well as non-immunized pets, are not allowed in the store.
Starbucks Korea CEO Sohn Jeong-hyun initiated the pet-friendly concept in response to consistent consumer demands. The company obtained regulatory approval from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy under the regulatory sandbox policy, allowing a two-year trial despite food safety laws generally prohibiting animals in dining establishments. Sohn expressed plans for further expansion, aiming to create spaces that accommodate diverse consumer lifestyles.
The move aligns with the rising trend of pet ownership in South Korea, with over 25% of households owning pets in 2022. The pet-related market has surged, reaching over 3 trillion won in 2022 and projected to grow to 3.25 trillion in 2023, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
Despite concerns about potential issues arising from pets in the café, Starbucks has taken precautions, separating pet and non-pet spaces. The company is open to adjusting the environment based on patron feedback to ensure a harmonious experience for all customers.