When asking Koreans where they shop, you might get an answer that has nothing to do with shopping malls, discount stores or major retailers.
Some of the common responses include 11th street and G market
These are ONLINE shopping malls that have become increasingly popular in recent years and industry experts say that shopping online may become THE most common way for people to shop by the end of the year.
Sales of the popular online shopping mall 11th street grew 15 percent in the third quarter. while one of the nation's biggest discount stores saw its sales drop by two percent in the same period.
Discount stores have seen their profits fall this year through a combination of the stumbling domestic economy and the adoption of a new government regulation earlier this year that bans these retailers from doing business two Sundays per month.
So what are the merits of shopping online In a fast-paced society like Korea's, where saving time and convenience is highly valued online shopping may very well be a much sought option for mobile-savvy Koreans.
Yoo Li-an, Arirang News.

Reporter : Lian.yoo@arirang.co.kr