Hee-kyung giggles as she steps into Seoul's innovative "warm-hearted convenience store," which aims to alleviate the growing loneliness among its residents. At just 29, she admits that her daily visits have become her sanctuary, where she grabs free instant ramen noodles and engages in conversations with fellow patrons and social workers. For Hee-kyung, who now lives separately from her family and relies on online friendships, the store has become an essential part of her routine.
Since its launch in March, this initiative has attracted nearly 20,000 visitors across four locations, far exceeding the expected 5,000 in the first year. The Dongdaemun store alone sees about 70 to 80 visitors daily, a mix of different ages, including young individuals seeking solace from their own social isolation. A 2022 study highlighted the alarming statistic that approximately 130,000 young people in Seoul aged 19 to 39 experience social isolation, underscoring a growing trend of single-person households, which now represent almost 40% of the population.
Inside the cozy store, patrons can relax on benches or beanbags while watching films together. Kim Se-heon, manager of the Loneliness Countermeasure Division, explained that the store offers a comfortable, café-like atmosphere. Visitors often fill out mood surveys while waiting for ramen to cook, which serves as a symbol of comfort in Korean culture.
The emergence of these stores reflects South Korea's rapid societal changes, transforming from a traditionally communal society to one characterized by urban isolation. Rising housing costs and demanding work schedules have pushed many young people away from traditional concepts of marriage and family, while the elderly feel neglected in a fast-paced world.
Lee In-sook, a counselor at the convenience store, relates deeply to the loneliness faced by older guests. She recalls asking older patrons about their meals, often prompting emotional responses. Similarly, Sohn, a 68-year-old frequent visitor, uses the store as a reprieve from his cramped home, appreciating the affordable comfort it offers.
The response to loneliness is not unique to Seoul; other countries have taken similar steps. The UK appointed a Minister for Loneliness, while Japan established an agency to tackle these growing issues. In South Korea, the pandemic has exacerbated challenges in building social networks, leading to a rise in voluntary social isolation among young people and prompting initiatives aimed at addressing these concerns.
Since the opening of the convenience stores, direct phone counseling services have also been launched to help those who struggle to find someone to confide in. With counseling sessions offered, the initiative supports people from all walks of life looking to share their burdens.
The stores have been strategically placed near low-income housing, making them accessible to those most in need of a supportive environment. Visitors often arrive hesitant to engage, reflecting on their struggles with loneliness. Store manager Lee Bo-hyun encourages these guests to stay, assuring them that they can simply enjoy a meal together without feeling pressured to speak.
The community atmosphere in the store has had a profound effect on people like Hee-kyung, who has grown more comfortable and open since her first visit. In a touching moment, she embraced In-sook, reflecting the significant impact this initiative has had in fostering connections among those who once felt isolated.
