Starbucks to customers in its third-largest market: Don’t bring these gadgets to our stores

Starbucks South Korea is asking its customers not to bring ‘bulky office equipment’ into the stores. According to a Business Insider report, the coffee retail chain has put up notices in its South Korean stores banning large office equipment such as desktop computers, printers, extension cords, and desk partitions. The notices further urges customers to take their belongings when leaving for long periods and to share tables with others. The BI report quotes Korea’s local publications – JoongAng Daily and the Korea Herald. Earlier this year, South Korea surpassed Japan in the number of Starbucks stores, becoming the third-largest market for the coffee chain after the United States and China.Starbucks Korea had updated its policy for its customers to “have a pleasant and accessible store experience,” a Starbucks representative told the publication. “While laptops and smaller personal devices are welcome, customers are asked to refrain from bringing desktop computers, printers, or other bulky items that may limit seating and impact the shared space,” the representative added.However, the rules do not include any time limits for staying in stories.

Why Starbucks South Korea is banning bulky gadgets

The move follows social media posts showing customers in South Korea using foldable partitions at tables, blocking access for others.The policy targets a growing work-from-café trend known locally as “cagongjok”. For those unaware, ‘cagongjok’ refers to people who work or study in cafés for long hours. In Seoul, this practice is fueled by the city’s dense café culture, with coffee shops on nearly every street corner.