Don't Bring Large Office Equipment Please

Starbucks in South Korea introduce a new policy which is aimed at enhancing in-store experience. 

According to a Business Insider report, the coffee retail chain have put up notices in their South Korean stores banning large office equipment. The notices further urge 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. 

Starbucks Korea updated their policy in order for their 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 their stores. 

The move follows social media posts showing customers in the said country 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.